A visit to the old Palais Royal, Richelieu's old Palace a stone's throw from the Louvre, would have been limited to Royals, Nobility, titled and well-connected of 17th through early 19th century. The garden promenade was flanked by boutiques offering up the finest goods of Paris and the World, along with charming trinkets and souvenirs. Napoleon's era also carried the traditions of theater and shopping there. On into mid-1800s when more Grand Tour and even military officers began to make the area popular. This popularized mother of pearl half-shell trinket tray is a French staple - called a 'vide pooch', literal translation: empty pocket" is the ornate and whimsical little bedside stand into which one empties pockets of change, puts watch or jewelry to rest overnight. A little vanity item most French people empty even into 20th century and beyond. This one would date c.1850-70s, solid-cast gilt brass birds at their birdbath being subject. Still well-mounted to the alabaster plinth of origin. Full measurements noted on photos.
Very good to excellent, alabaster is not broken, no breaks or cracks to that half shell "egg" tray, and the balance of the metal framework is solid, sturdy, very well preserved. I see no flaws to note. Bottom has a very old felt protective panel, and it is slightly deteriorated by age. A fine piece, age in mind. Charming!
