Antique French Necessaire, Carnet Bal in Fine Tortoise Shell Pique Card Case Aide d'Memoire
A superb mid-1800s French aide d'memoire in shell that is inlaid with a beautiful nature scene of silver and ivory. The condition is just as fine as our images show it to be, and the chocolate shell is beautifully shaped and preserved in this fine old French treasure. A crimson silk moire lining that is original and is remarkably unscathed by time, only missed its stylus which would act as a clasp. One can normally find these here or there, if one wishes to use this case. But it's a fabulous display item just as it stands. Very good to excellent condition for age. These are c. 1840-60, very Napoleon III and with a Japonaise influence to the inlay, consistent with the era. No chips or nips, no cracks. A fine one! IMPORTANT NOTE regarding antique tortoise shell or ivory: We are great supporters of protection for endangered species in our modern world. We never buy or sell anything 100 years or newer; we donate to anti-poaching organizations; we don't hunt; we conserve in ways that im