Tablet Case Souvenir Of Friendship Or 18th Century Ball Book In Gold, Vermeil And Quilted Lacquer.

Superb “souvenir of friendship” case from the 18th century.

The case is in blue-gray lacquer inlaid with small six-pointed gold stars.
On each side there are two locations for miniatures and/or locks of hair.
The case is superbly enhanced with gold rims imitating rope.
On the lid, two openwork gold plaques are inscribed “souvenir” and “friendship”. These little necessities were offered by a man to a loved one or between friends in order to preserve the memory of their loved one.
The inside of the kit reveals a small notebook made up of three thin ivory plates, set with a vermeil rivet. There is also an empty slot for a pencil.

The hinge as well as the part holding the notebook are in vermeil, as are the grooved oval frames. But the stars, oval medallions and the rims decorated with ropes are indeed gold.

The vermeil setting is hallmarked:
. Lapwing head: discharge of small gold and silver works between 1782 and 1789

. Post-check owl punch for gold on “corded” strapping.
. Very small hallmark that I was unable to identify on these same strappings, probably 18th century discharge hallmarks.

Magnificent precious object, moving testimony to the art of living of high society under the Ancien Régime. This ball book is remarkable for its scattering of gold stars contrasting magnificently with the blue lacquer.

3.5 inches tall
5.2 cm wide
9mm thick

75.8 grams gross.

Good condition. A small gap prevents the case from closing properly, which no longer “clips” into place. A small lack of lacquer above the hinge; and minimally, above the push button and two other tiny gaps on the top of the case.



Hand delivery in Paris or sending by insured Colissimo.

France: 15€
Europe: 20€
World: €35