Buy With Confidence
For over a century, we've placed important art, rare jewels and exceptional objects with more than 14,000 collectors worldwide, and have been recognized by trusted publications including Robb Report, The New York Times, Wall Street Journal and more.
On Approval
Examine select works in person before you commit
125% Guarantee
Full credit plus 5% annual appreciation for five years
Trusted Expertise
Over two centuries of combined experience across our specialists
George II Enameled Gold Étui with Jasper Seal
- This exquisite George II-period étui showcases exceptional goldwork and colorful Rococo enameling
- The case is chased with putti, scrolling foliage and flowers against a finely textured sablé ground
- Its carved jasper seal depicts Cupid and a heart with the French motto “AV PLVS ADROIT”
- The case was designed to hold small personal objects and facilitate the sealing of love letters
- Get complete item description here
To speak to one of our experts, call 1-888-711-8084
Circa 1760
This exquisite George II-period étui, or decorative case, is a superb example of the intricate goldwork and enameling prized in 18th-century European luxury arts. Crafted in gold and richly ornamented in the Rococo taste, it combines exceptional chasing, colorful enamels and a carved hardstone seal in a remarkably intimate object. Dating to circa 1760, the étui reflects both the refinement of the Georgian court and the period’s fascination with. . .
Circa 1760
This exquisite George II-period étui, or decorative case, is a superb example of the intricate goldwork and enameling prized in 18th-century European luxury arts. Crafted in gold and richly ornamented in the Rococo taste, it combines exceptional chasing, colorful enamels and a carved hardstone seal in a remarkably intimate object. Dating to circa 1760, the étui reflects both the refinement of the Georgian court and the period’s fascination with beautifully crafted objects designed for personal use.
The slightly tapering case is boldly chased with playful putti amid scrolling foliage and Rococo flourishes, all set against a finely textured sablé ground. Trailing pink and white flowers and verdant green foliage enliven the gold with vivid color, while the base is fitted with an intricately carved jasper matrix, which would have been pressed into sealing wax. The seal depicts Cupid aiming his arrow toward a heart raised upon a pole, accompanied by the French motto “AV PLVS ADROIT,” meaning “To the most skillful.” This amorous emblem suggests that the heart is the prize of the most skillful lover, making the seal particularly fitting for letters exchanged between lovers.
The term étui derives from the Old French estuier, meaning “to keep or hold,” and these small cases were designed to carry useful personal implements such as scissors, needles and thimbles. Their compact size also made them well suited to carrying secret correspondence, particularly love letters. In this example, the integrated wax seal would have allowed the owner to seal such intimate correspondence with an emblem whose Cupid-and-heart imagery further reinforces its romantic purpose.
Stamped with the Étranger “ET” mark, indicating its import to France
3 1/2" high x 3/4" wide x 1/2" deep
| Period: | 18th Century |
| Origin: | England |
| Type: | Decorative Boxes |
| Style: | Rococo |
| Depth: | 0.5 in. (1.27 cm) |
| Width: | 0.75 in. (1.91 cm) |
| Height: | 3.5 in. (8.89 cm) |
Buy With Confidence
For over a century, we've placed important art, rare jewels and exceptional objects with more than 14,000 collectors worldwide, and have been recognized by trusted publications including Robb Report, The New York Times, Wall Street Journal and more.
On Approval
Examine select works in person before you commit
125% Guarantee
Full credit plus 5% annual appreciation for five years
Trusted Expertise
Over two centuries of combined experience across our specialists
