Antique French Aide d' Memoire in Fine Tortoise Shell, Silver and Brass Pique, Stylus
Still working to clear my own collections, this old beauty is a Napoleon III (c.1850-70s) French aide d' memoire, a notebook with calendar and a pocket for calling cards, a silver stylus or mechanical pencil which doubles as the closure post, these were a necessity for busy upper class women, keeping appointments and notations. The early forerunner of the Daytimer, and by now, our smart phones, they were tucked into one's purse or pocket. Rather rare to find them in such nice condition as this one, complete with its original stylus/pencil. Full measurements noted on the photos. Very good to excellent condition for age and type, the old tortoise shell is remarkably clear of damage, even to the steam-formed spine which is also shell. A very well-kept silk satin interior with gusseted side compartment for calling (or business) cards, and really quite rare to find it still has its stylus. All you'll need is a few folded pages to form a notebook to go along with the calendar, and it's compl