Dating to about Napoleon III at latest, likely a bit earlier (c.1840-50s) survives this charming French opaline glass trinket, likely from the boutiques of the Palais Royal, the old palace of Cardinal Richelieu (such history!). The boutiques were full of finest quality fares from fine clothing to weaponry, elegant silver and travel cases fitted out with every possible traveler's necessity (Nécessaire), and the famed sewing boxes, and whimsical trinkets and gifts like this one. Sometimes these 'eggs' were empty, to fill with bonbons. Some were fitted inside with a complete sewing implements set, and some had scent or perfume bottles inside like this one. Fun to collect then and now! Full measurements are noted on our photos.
Very good to excellent condition for age and type. Not a bit of flaw or problem noted in any of the opaline glass, no chips, no hairlines or imperfections. The scent flask still has its original matching stopper, which is surprising. The hand painted decoration is also remarkably complete, no loss. Hinge and clasp working well, and there are no breaks to the ormolu framework. Sound and rests evenly. I was tempted to put a glass bead into the ormolu flowers, since they appear to have once had same (and from experience, I know they sometimes did), but I'll leave the decision to the next owner.
