From my lifelong collection, another exquisite antique tortoise shell box, case, etui. This one is silk-lined and is the type used as presentation case. I've had them fitted for pocket watches, or for necklace, and even a couple with fitting to hold portrait miniatures or medals. This one does not have an indentation fitting for any of those, and therefore can be used in many ways.I've used it mostly as a display item in vitrine - either several exquisite antique jewelry items, or some small portrait miniatures. Caught everyone's eye when it held 5 18k gold and Russian enameled and jeweled pocket watches year ago. It is mid-1800s to perhaps as late as 1890, French made. You will not find a nicer one. I've kept the best ones to myself all these years, but it's time to disburse collections (downsize) and it is ready to be loved by someone else. Nice sized, it's beautiful open or closed, and from all viewpoints. Full measurements noted on photos.
Very good to excellent condition throughout. Only the slightest evidence of it ever having been used (I'm careful!) and there are really no flaws to note on the tortoise shell. Brilliant mottles of cognac to chocolate. Silk lining, black on bottom half and white on the top. The bottom is even excellent. Hinge and clasp working perfectly, no warp, no odors - just superb!
IMPORTANT NOTE regarding antique tortoise shell or ivory: We are great supporters of protection for endangered species in our modern world. We never buy or sell anything 100 years or newer; we donate to anti-poaching organizations; we don't hunt; we conserve in ways that impact global warming (we're totally solar at home), knowing those measures also protect the animals in the wild today. We also recognize the vast cultural history we preserve with our care and reverence for these antique objects, and agree with CITES that objects over 100 years of age have nothing whatsoever to do with species depletion in our current world.
Our offering exceeds the age limitation of "more than 100 years of age", and is well within the exemption for CITES regulation. If imported, met the CITES regulation. This item will be handled and shipped from our Utah business, and is not available for shipment internationally, nor within the USA to California, NY, Nevada, Hawaii, New Jersey, Oregon, Washington if it contains ivory, sorry. Please see our small print for more details.
