Antique 1798 French Empire Gold Sewing Etui, Tools - Napoleonic

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Antique 1798 French Empire Gold Sewing Etui, Tools - Napoleonic

About the Item

So rare to find, and with marks dating this one squarely to the Napoleon era, French control mark is the rooster, or cock mark for 1798-1809, Paris. We've shown the diamond-shaped touch mark that identifies the goldsmith, also, but we have not yet researched that mark in order to know exactly which of the note Paris goldsmiths actually created this set. If we locate the name, we'll add to our description. If your reference books have it, please email and let us know, and thank you in advance for having done so. The set is complete, with consideration to the needle case being a contemporary but replacement one. We know this from the size and mis-fitted recess in the case, but the design and period are well matched. The thimble is remarkable, as are the very sharp embroidery scissors with 18k gold handles. The lid to the small perfume flask is also marked and is 18k gold, as is that fabulous combination ear wax spoon/bodkin. The old original case is in superb condition for age and type, and even the original mirror still graces the interior of the lid. A magnificent and very early set. The French implements are heavy, the set without the glass bottle comes to a hair under 20 grams. Owing to the dating and the quality, one can almost assume this was owned by a Royal or courtier of the French Empire, and being thus, very likely has been in presence of Josephine, if not Napoleon. Sets such as this were not found in lesser homes, and represent the finest of goods, likely to have been commissioned directly, or had from the Palais Royal boutiques. I can tell you, I have seen lesser sets in museum collections around the world. This is a superb set!

Very good to excellent condition for age and type. The original gold-embossed leather covered etui is remarkably fine for age, and to open it is a joy - the stunningly beautiful 18k gold sewing implements within are all so beautiful and clean, opulent. The only thing to note by way of flaw is a chip to the rim of the tiny perfume flask which is covered by the 18k gold cap (we've shown it well in our photos for your examination), and the other flaw being that a replacement 18k gold needle case is housed with the set, as mentioned above.

Metal:
18k Gold
Dimensions:
Width: 5 in (127 mm)
Place of Origin:
France
Date of Manufacture:
c. 1798
Condition:
Very good for age. Flaws include tiny chip on bottle rim; replacement but same era needle case. Very light surface flaws on case.
Seller Location:
San Marcos, CA
Reference Number:
Seller: 611sew18k41stDibs: JU11101522738