Oh what a joy it is to find the really fine and complete sets - another wonderful and early set, in original leather box (I love boxes!) and complete but for a pen nib, which can be easily purchased and used with the set should you wish to put this one to use. This type of set, elegant as it is, dates late 1700s to very early 1800s, not later than 1830. Rarely do we find them complete; more often a piece here or there, but the one you see has not only all the pieces, they are exquisitely fragile ones that by all history, should probably not have survived, because the handle are wonderful opaline glass, or perhaps milky quartz. The opulent engraved work on the blade of the letter opener makes it a work of art. And for attention to detail, note that each of the 2 compartment covers are there and fitted with handsome little knobs to lift them easily. Even the silk velvet interior is in remarkably fine condition. I have not had or seen one this fine, and I've been doing this a very long time. Exceptional!
Very good to excellent condition throughout. Embossed gold work on the leather etui's exterior remains bright, is surely gold foil. The dore bronze work on the handles holds its brilliant gold coloration, not a bit of tarnish, no stainging to the steel blade, either. What a fine fine set! Measurements are noted on our photos.
