Boxed set: 2 Piece Set: Antique French Tortoise Shell Necessaire & Coin Purse, Opulent and Elaborately Worked in Pique

The type of set you see here, so opulently finished in fine shell and beautifully inlaid and unmonogrammed cartouche of silver, is a moderate and typical set from France, mid- 1800s and was a traditional gift for a young person upon their Catholic confirmation, as well as was a lovely souvenir or gift for other occasions. These survive, usually without mates, but in most cases they did originally come as you see it here, paired in a presentation box. The box, in this case, is original, and will attend the set just as you see it. We love finding these in their original fitted presentation case, to show how the pair of matching items, 'necessaire' or 'aide d'memoire' and the coin purse, would have been given in origin. That said, this pair is just stunning! More highly polished to higher sheen than most, they have also been better cared for than most and survive in very good condition apart from having a small chip happen over time in one spot at clasp of the aide d'memoire or necessaire (some refer to these by either name). The photos show each of the 2 pieces well, I think, so ponder their mutual splendor as you must. The set is simple and elegant enough to be used by either a gentleman or a lady. Many use the necessaire as an evening 'bag' of sorts - a few business cards tucked in; a credit card and some cash, and you're ready to go. I have many, LOVE them all!