Each sewing tool in it's fitted carved-out place, safely preserved these 170 to 150 years, this is a Napoleon III or mid-Victorian sewing etui, set, French in origin and the marks are on each piece (boar's head profile, .800/1000 pure silver, typical for small pieces like sewing items). A layer of 18k gold on the silver, so 'vermeil' - the look of 18k gold but not so pricey. The set is gorgeous and includes the added piece, a retractible pencil or stylus. The case is thick and heavy, fine chocolate colored tortoise shell inlaid with a gold banding and cartouche. The cartouche is an overlaid E and B. and contrasts of silver set off that decorative top. Measurements are noted on the photos.
Very good to excellent throughout, 2 flaws to note: on the inner lip, bottom half of the etui or case is a flat flashing ship. I've marked it. Surprising that it isn't more obvious, but the way it chipped makes it visible only from a certain angle of view, when closed. I marked it with an 'x' for you to be sure you review it. Flaw 2: it is missing just the bodkin, or large needle used to thread ribbon or string. That's a very common loss in these old cases. Otherwise, the implements are all so very nice. All original, the case is so elegant, heavy in the hand and no bug bites at all. Very special one!
IMPORTANT NOTE regarding antique tortoise shell or ivory: We are great supporters of protection for endangered species in our modern world. We never buy or sell anything 100 years or newer; we donate to anti-poaching organizations; we don't hunt; we conserve in ways that impact global warming (we're totally solar at home), knowing those measures also protect the animals in the wild today. We also recognize the vast cultural history we preserve with our care and reverence for these antique objects, and agree with CITES that objects over 100 years of age have nothing whatsoever to do with species depletion in our current world.
Our offering exceeds the age limitation of "more than 100 years of age", and is well within the exemption for CITES regulation. If imported, met the CITES regulation. This item will be handled and shipped from our Utah business, and is not available for shipment internationally, nor within the USA to California, NY, Nevada, Hawaii, New Jersey, Oregon, Washington if it contains ivory, sorry. Please see our small print for more details.
