Egyptian Monkey with Snake Porcelain Limoges Box

A monkey and a snake share the scene in this Egyptian-themed piece, a pairing that calls up the animal lore of the ancient Nile. Painted by hand in Limoges, France, this porcelain Limoges box suits anyone drawn to pyramids, pharaohs and old legends.

Tales From the Nile

The ancient Egyptians gave animals a central place in their art and beliefs, and both monkeys and serpents appear again and again in temple carvings and tomb paintings. This box brings those two creatures together in a design with an Egyptian theme.

Pharaoh's Shelf

• Hand-painted porcelain from Limoges, France
• Fits an Egyptian, world travel or animal lore grouping
• Pairs with globe, elephant and safari pieces

For Students of the Ancient World

It makes an unusual present for a history teacher, an archaeology enthusiast, a museum docent or a traveler back from a Nile cruise. It also suits a collector who enjoys pieces that spark a conversation.

A Spot in the Study

Set it on a library shelf among books on ancient history, beside travel photos from Cairo or Luxor, or in a curio cabinet with other world travel pieces. Its subject always draws questions from guests.