One of my favorite mid-1800s French sewing sets, the etui is a work of art all on its own, inlays of brass and mother of pearl to show a figure in landscape with 2 exotic birds and flowers, the man holds a butterfly net. Stringing is a slender white contrast against the rosewood or perhaps dark walnut case (a section missing in front). Opens to reveal 3 of the most elegant embroidery or sewing tools ever, and in pristine condition, alongside what I believe to be a substitute thimble which is not in pristine condition - you will likely wish to watch for a thimble replacement. Bright and elaborately crafted needle case, scissor and stiletto handles have tiny French punch marks guaranteeing they are .800/1000 pure silver and they have a generous and well-preserved 18k gold layer (vermeil). Steel stiletto and scissor blades remain in fine condition, as well, without corrosion. The scissors are still very sharp. A set you will want to use, perhaps. Full measurements noted on the photos.
Very good to excellent condition for age and type, as noted above. The only exception is the thimble which I feel certain is a replacement and it is not of the same quality and does have flaws - you'll want to replace it with a much prettier thimble. Case, interior and 3 original tools are all just gorgeous. No warping and hinge and clasp working perfectly. Interior in very nice condition for age, too. Inlays are firmly in place, and only a little loss of the thin white stringing border has gone missing (see images).
