A wonderful traveler's letter writing case, scribe's travel case, in leather and lined in silk, it has a pomander (sander) in the spot one would expect to see an inkwell. That means it was likely early enough that the habit was an ink stick rubbed on an abrasive surface, perhaps a stone, added to a little water, then used with a dip pen. Room enough for ink stick, sealing wax and seals, and a roll of sheets of vellum upon which to write (or paper). I'd date it c.1830-50. Wonderful desktop item, inkwell collectors will love it. And also - perfect set detail, you movie production houses buying props (yes, we do sell to them, too).
Very good to excellent for age and type. The leather is old but it's supple and nicely preserved. The old interior is beautifully preserved, without stains you'd anticipate in such an item, and while I think it would have had an inkwell rather than the little pomander in that opening, it makes sense this way, as well. The entire set is lovely. Interior silk is very good for age. Holder on inner lid for quill pen. The clasp holds tightly closed. Look it over. The measurements are noted on the photos, but it is 10.5" long overall.
