RARE 18th century carnet du bal decorated In the manner of layered painting and varnish which ages to golden hues over time, and which is called "Vernis Martin" or varnish in the manner of the Brothers Martin. This style was developed in the reign of Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette, used on walls, furniture and small items in their time and you'll see much of it in the Palace at Versailles when you tour there. These smaller items, objet de virtu, remain highly sought after. The painted etui you see here would mid-late 1700s, most popular in the time of French King Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette, and even to 100 years after they had met their ill-fated end at the start of the French Revolution. This one is early survives well, with nearly all of the old original painted and varnish layered surface intact and in fine form and professionally touched up so it's really quite fabulous. The paintings are superb on this one - tiny works of fine art - a landscape and bouquet on the 'back side' is as beautiful as it the courting scene on the front. This would have been created for a grand ball or Court event including dancing, and would have had a thin slate of ivory inside (now missing) and an attached stylus to note the names of gentlemen and the dance promised them. The item would then be kept as a souvenir of the event. The old courting scene reminds us of the 1700s art of Fragonard, Boucher and the Romantic movement in art, works of which can be found on display in the Louvre today, and in other museums. A lovely bit of history here!
Very good to excellent condition for age and type. From the stunning fine paintings on each side, to the body of the case, itself, to that appliqués try-color metal frame with the hinge, it is superb for nearly 250 years of age. Museum-worthy. If complete, there would be a thin 'page' of ivory, but that part has not survived the centuries. There are a few spots which have had professional restoration, re-painting, very nicely done. Full measurements noted on the photos. Meant to be held in the palm of the hand, it is 5 1/4" long and just a bit under 3" widest - elegant lobed form top and bottom. Carved wood body.
