Cat and Butterfly Egg Hand-Painted Limoges Box

A cat lies in the grass on this porcelain egg, watching a butterfly drift past on a summer breeze. It is a hand-painted porcelain Limoges box, with the whole garden scene painted by hand in Limoges, France.

Butterfly Watch

Cats are endlessly patient hunters, and a butterfly is the most tempting target of all. This scene catches the moment just before a pounce that never quite happens, a quiet garden story that cat owners will recognize right away.

Cats in the Garden

• Hand-painted porcelain from Limoges, France
• Fits a cat, butterfly or egg collection
• Pairs with the birds and flowers egg and cat with yarn pieces

A Spring Surprise

Set it on a windowsill where a real cat likes to sun, on a bedroom dresser, or on an Easter table among other eggs. It makes a sweet present for a cat owner, a butterfly gardener, or a friend who collects decorated eggs. Mother's Day and spring birthdays suit it nicely.

Small Boxes, Big Story

Small porcelain boxes became fashionable in 18th century France, when they held snuff, pills and beauty patches. Eggs became one of the best loved shapes for these little keepsakes.