Splendid antique French sewing box, c.1800, give or take 15 years. An elaborate and excellent outer box of rich burled wood with stunning work in cut steel pin pique work. Opens to reveal the complete set of Palais Royal sewing implements, including the original scent flacon, bottle, still in their fitted lift-out shelf. The stiletto retains the old 18k gold oval with kiln-fired enamel flower, signature affirming it to have originally been sold from the boutiques that flank the promenade of the gardens of the famed Palais Royal, Richelieu's palace. All the very best goods, confections, social events hail from that center of high society. Trim and cap are 18k gold. Working lock and original key, original silk pad and the old original mirror still intact. Rare, indeed.
Very good to excellent condition for age and type. Quite amazing to find without losses to the cut steel pique, but I see none. No warp, the lid closes and locks smoothly. Interior silk shows some age, but remarkable for age. The tools are all original to this case, perfect fit, with possible exception of the needle. It ought to be 18k gold. The one in it fits the space, but it is silver. The thimble is beautiful, quite thick, actually, and on one side it has a chip (shown in images) which doesn't go all through, just flashes the outer rim. The needle case has a recess for a little 18k gold and enamel plaque, but it is no longer with the case. Top to the original tiny scent bottle is also 18k gold, as is the handle caps for the scissors, and trim on the needle case. A superb set - very difficult to find these. Don't miss it if you've been looking, waiting.
