A charming 19th-century dance or appointment book, composed of two imitation brown tortoiseshell plaques framing several rigid sheets of polished bone. It features a finely chased brass hinged binding and a small gilt pencil suspended by a chain. This type of elegant object allowed for the notation of dancers' names or evening appointments, a refined symbol of feminine sophistication during the Belle Époque.
✦ Origin: France ✦ Estimated period: Circa 1880–1900 ✦ Dimensions: 6×4 cm ✦ Material: Tortoiseshell (or imitation) and bone, gilded brass ✦ Contents: Original rigid sheets, small graphite pencil ✦ Condition: Very good condition, beautiful patina and functional mechanism, slight signs of wear
A small gem of 19th-century writing and gallantry, ideal for a display case of curiosities or a collection of antique pocket items.
