A fine mid-19th century French rosewood and brass inlaid artist's box by Deforge & Carpentier of Paris, circa 1856-1863, the hinged lid with central brass inlaid crowned initials 'SM' within line borders and finely engraved brass corner crestings, the interior fully fitted with a bird's eye maple palette and a removable tray containing plated metal mixing dishes, ceramic and glass dishes and six brass topped bottles, the front and both sides fitted with drawers containing charcoal, watercolour cakes, a set of eighteen brass topped glass paint bottles by Deforge & Carpentier, watercolour paper and a hinged slope, bearing engraved maker's name to lock plate, width 47cm. Note: this box may relate to Sophie Marie, Duchess of Baden.