Antique French Pique c.1750-1810 Nécessaire, Etui, Tortoise Shell and Sterling Silver
A stunning fine c.1750-1810 French vest pocket vanity nécessaire, would have been filled with small implements of necessity for the elegant traveler, or gentleman, lady, in its time. The interior items have all gone missing over the centuries, which is very often the case, but the etui, itself is exquisite, and beautifully preserved. It is petit, as these were, and an engineering marvel. Just 3" long, 1 1/2" wide and 3/4" at deepest, an oval form. You can see from the fittings, it would have had a note ivory and stylus, a small measure, a handle and fork, a pocket knife and a small bodkin with ear wax spoon on one end. Measurements noted on our photos. It is 3 1/2" long. Very good to excellent condition for age and type, the case or etui is as close to perfect as you'll ever find. Well over 250 years, it hasn't any lifts of the inlaid silver, and no nips nor chips nor cracks or hairlines on that deep chocolate colored tortoise shell. Hinge and clasp working perfectly. A rare gem from