Exquisite late 19th Century square porcelain cachepot raised on four legs and topped with finials at each corner. Each side panel features delicate, hand-painted pastoral scenes framed with Rococo style gilt borders. Depictions include a young boy playing a Swiss bagpipe (Schweizer Sackpfeife), a water well among trees, beehives under a straw parasol, and a lady's straw hat with a basket resting on the ground. This form, known as Caisse Carrée à Fleurs (Square Flower Box), draws inspiration from the square terracotta tubs used in the gardens of Versailles to house orange trees. These portable planters allowed for the easy relocation of delicate citrus trees to the Orangerie during winter months. Smaller porcelain versions of these orange tubs, like this piece, are popular for displaying flowers or serving as decorative centerpieces on dining tables. Similar shaped pieces are found in the collections of the Victoria and Albert Museum, made by Vincennes and Sèvres. A cachepot is a decorative container used to conceal a plain flowerpot. Designed for aesthetic display rather than direct planting, it typically lacks drainage holes. The term originates from the French words cacher (to hide) and pot (pot), literally meaning "hiding pot." Shipped fully insured, with tracking number. Measurements: 6 3/8" tall by 4 3/8" square approximately. Weight: 1 lbs. 5.6 oz. unpacked.