Vintage Altrohlau CMR Czechoslovakia Porcelain Trinket Box with Scalloped Lid
Viridian Eclection
The Piece
Altrohlau CMR Porcelain Trinket Box with Scalloped Lid
Czechoslovakia, mid-20th century
A finely made porcelain trinket box produced in Altrohlau (modern-day Stará Role) under the CMR export mark, during the mid-20th century. The box features a softly scalloped silhouette with hand-painted floral decoration in blue, orange, and gray tones, applied to a creamy white glazed ground. The gently undulating rim and lid reflect Central European interpretations of earlier Rococo forms, simplified for modern domestic use.
Compact and tactile, this piece was intended for personal storage on a vanity or bedside table.
Historical Context
Altrohlau, located in what is now the Czech Republic, was a well-established porcelain-producing region known for refined domestic wares throughout the late 19th and 20th centuries. After World War II, many factories operated under nationalized systems and exported goods marked “Czechoslovakia” or “Czechoslovakia CMR” for international markets.
This box reflects that period’s emphasis on clean forms, restrained decoration, and functional elegance. While decorative, it was never meant to be precious or ceremonial. It was made to be used.
Product Details
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Maker | Altrohlau (Stará Role) |
| Origin | Czechoslovakia |
| Date | Mid-20th century |
| Material | Porcelain |
| Decoration | Hand-painted floral motif |
| Form | Scalloped lidded trinket box |
| Markings | “Altrohlau CMR Czechoslovakia” to underside |
| Condition | Very good vintage condition |
Condition Notes
Porcelain body is intact with no cracks observed. Minor edge wear and light surface marks are present, consistent with age and handling. Hand-painted decoration remains clear and vibrant. Interior is clean and well preserved.
Why It Belongs in Your Home
This piece sits comfortably between decorative and practical. Its scale is intimate, its form soft, and its decoration calm. It works just as well holding rings or small keepsakes as it does simply existing as a composed tabletop object.
It doesn’t shout. It doesn’t compete. It just belongs.
From Viridian Eclection
We’re drawn to objects that reflect thoughtful making and honest use. This Altrohlau trinket box represents mid-century Central European porcelain at its most approachable: well-crafted, quietly decorative, and meant to be lived with.
Every piece is packed with professional-grade materials: multiple foam layers, double-boxing, directional and fragile handling labels. For large furniture we use custom timber crating. We photograph packing before dispatch and can provide images on request.
White-glove delivery is complimentary within 100 miles of Reno, NV. National shipping quotes provided at checkout. All shipments are photographed and documented. Damage claims must be filed with the carrier; we provide all documentation needed to support your claim.
Local pickup is available at Viridian HQ (Reno, NV) with 2–4 days notice. Contact us to arrange. Visit the Eclection on Tuesdays, 10 am to 4 pm.
All antique and vintage items are sold as described and all sales are final. Each listing includes detailed condition notes and photographs so you can make a fully informed decision. We encourage buyers to ask questions — about condition, dimensions, finish, provenance — before purchasing.
Antiques are irreplaceable and one-of-a-kind. Carrier handling is outside our control once a piece has left our facility, and major carriers including FedEx do not insure antiques. We do everything within our power to ensure safe transit, but cannot accept liability for carrier damage. If damage occurs in transit, we will provide full documentation to support your carrier claim.
Have a question? — we're happy to provide additional photos, condition detail, or discuss the piece directly.
