.
  • Another angle of the closed porthole box showing the glass front and hinge, with the same book and desk objects nearby
  • Overhead view of the closed brass porthole box with its wing nut latch, resting on a stone surface near an open book and a horse-head letter opener
  • Close-up of the wing nut latch mechanism on the side of the box, showing the brass hinge and screw closure in detail
  • The closed box displayed on a book alongside a silver horse-head letter opener and matching horse-head scissors
  • The porthole box shown open, its hinged glass panel lifted to reveal the brass interior
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Another angle of the closed porthole box showing the glass front and hinge, with the same book and desk objects nearby
Overhead view of the closed brass porthole box with its wing nut latch, resting on a stone surface near an open book and a horse-head letter opener
Close-up of the wing nut latch mechanism on the side of the box, showing the brass hinge and screw closure in detail
The closed box displayed on a book alongside a silver horse-head letter opener and matching horse-head scissors
The porthole box shown open, its hinged glass panel lifted to reveal the brass interior

Hermes Brass Porthole Box with Glass Front

Found in United States

A wonderfully unexpected object from Hermes, this box takes the form of a genuine working porthole, complete with a wing nut screw mechanism that opens and closes the round window just as it would on a ship. Crafted from heavy gauge gold plated brass, the piece has real substance in hand, with a thick base that grounds the whole object and gives it presence on a shelf or console.

The porthole itself is finished with glass, so whatever is stored inside remains visible even when the box is closed, part display case, part keepsake box. Turn the wing nut and the round window swings open on its hinge, revealing the interior and making the piece as satisfying to interact with as it is to look at.

Measuring 6" x 2", the box is substantial enough to serve as a genuine focal point rather than a small accent. Its nautical form makes it a natural fit for a seaside home, a boat, or simply anyone drawn to Hermes's more playful, sculptural decorative objects.

A decadent and exceptionally rare find, this porthole box is unlike almost anything else Hermes produced in this category.

Collectors Notes

Hermes rarely ventured into nautical forms like this, which makes a genuine working porthole box a real find for collectors who already have the more expected pieces. It fits naturally among our Vintage Hermes pieces, and sits beautifully within our home decor collection as well.
Dimensions

6 x 2"
Shipping

We ship worldwide, with USPS Ground included for orders within the 48 contiguous U.S. states (5–8 business days). USPS Express (2 business days) is available at checkout for an added cost. Orders are typically processed within 1–2 business days, and you’ll receive an email with tracking details once shipped. Please note that delivery times are estimates and may vary due to weather, carrier delays, or peak seasons. If you have any questions about your order, contact us at info@collectorsgene.com.

Another angle of the closed porthole box showing the glass front and hinge, with the same book and desk objects nearby
Overhead view of the closed brass porthole box with its wing nut latch, resting on a stone surface near an open book and a horse-head letter opener
Close-up of the wing nut latch mechanism on the side of the box, showing the brass hinge and screw closure in detail
The closed box displayed on a book alongside a silver horse-head letter opener and matching horse-head scissors
The porthole box shown open, its hinged glass panel lifted to reveal the brass interior
Collectors Gene | Cameron Ross Steiner

Who Are You Buying From?

Every object here has a journey before it ever reaches you. I've spent years seeking these pieces out, in back rooms of old ateliers, from families who've inherited more than they can keep, through dealers I've come to trust, in conversations with people who still work with their hands, because I've always believed the things we choose to live with should carry something true. What began as a private obsession became a devotion, one I now share with my wife and daughter, who remind me daily that the best collections are the ones built to be passed down, not simply owned. What you're holding isn't just an object. You're inheriting its story, and becoming part of its next chapter.

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