An unusual view from the 1867 Paris Expo (Exposition Universelle), I've added an old postcard to the photos to show you exactly what part of the exhibition buildings layout this back-painted glass "eglomise" painting shows. I've always loved these 19th century souvenirs and collect them, myself. This view is one I've never seen before this case. The case is in very fine condition for its age and the materials, with supple leather both outside and inside, apparently never actually used. Still has the little bit of fine sandpaper that would have acted as a striker for matches, and the baffled sides will expand to hold up to 6 cigars, or your reading glasses and a credit card and some cash for an evening out. I use these, or used to, for business after-hours meetings, as a little clutch purse. They were awfully good at opening conversations back in the time when making connections at events was an in-person thing. You'll find the perfect way to use and or display and enjoy this one. And in the meantime, I'm going to enjoy owning it. The International Exposition of 1867 (Exposition Universelle d'Art et d'Industrie), was the second world's fair to be held in Paris, from April 1st to November 3rd, 1867. Forty two nations were represented at the fair. Following a decree of Emperor Napoleon III, the exposition was prepared as early as 1864, in the midst of the renovation of Paris, marking the culmination of the Second French Empire. In 1864, Napoleon III decreed that an international exposition should be held in Paris in 1867. A commission was appointed with Prince Jerome Napoleon as president, under whose direction the preliminary work began. The site chosen for the Exposition Universelle of 1867 was the Champ de Mars, the great military parade ground of Paris, which covered an area of 119 acres and to which was added the island of Billancourt, of 52 acres. The principal building was rectangular in shape with rounded ends, having a length of 1608 feet and a width of 1247 feet, and in the center was a pavilion surmounted by a dome and surrounded by a garden, 545 feet long and 184 feet wide, with a gallery built completely around it. In addition to the main building, there were nearly 100 smaller buildings on the grounds.
Very good to excellent condition for age and type. The metal frame is very fine, bright and polished. The leather has no holes or damage, shows very little sign of its advanced age.
