A truly splendid c.1809 French Palais Royal sewing box, necessaire, every original implement retained and in its fitted compartment. Cut steel on light wood, as beautifully preserved outside as within, and extra pieces above and beyond many of these charming Napoleon era sewing boxes. This one has a crochet tambour (hook) and a pocket knife in addition to the more typical pieces and has 2 lift-out trays. Scent bottle cap and trim and medallions are 18k gold, typical of Palais Royal standards of the time. Full measurements noted on the photos.
Very good to excellent condition for age and type, the exterior and interior are surprisingly unscathed by time. That is the original mirror, 200+ years old, and yes, it has cracks but all pieces are adhered to a backing and in place with beautiful gilded trim and you won't want to replace it. It has an easel stand and is still very reflective. The old mirror, typical of age, has some age to the silvering. It removes from the box to reveal a gusseted folder in perfect condition behind, for patterns or notes. The tools you see have no damage at all. I can see that there are 2 compartments left open, and it is likely there were originally 4 of the spools - just 2 remain. Yes, there is a crochet hook enclosed in the tambour handle, too. Just superb! These are more and more rare, particularly with intact excellent tools. Found in France, of course.
