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Gold and Enamel Étui
Gold and Enamel Étui
Gold and Enamel Étui
Gold and Enamel Étui

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Gold and Enamel Étui

  • This rare and enchanting French enameled étui is a jewel of 18th-century craftsmanship
  • The yellow gold case is adorned with delicate seed pearls and painted portraits of classical maidens
  • This elegant case may have been used to carry or pass correspondence and love letters
  • The term étui derives from the Old French estuier, meaning “to keep” or “hold”
  • Get complete item description here
$18,850
Item No. 32-3168

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Description
Gold and Enamel Étui
Circa 1790

This rare and enchanting French enameled étui is a jewel of 18th-century craftsmanship. Fashioned in yellow gold, it is lavishly adorned with delicate seed pearls, along with painted portraits of classical maidens and exquisite floral bouquets, brought to life through vibrant enamel. Small enough to conceal discreetly, this elegant case may have been used to carry or pass correspondence and love letters. This treasure is a captivating example. . .
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Gold and Enamel Étui
Circa 1790

This rare and enchanting French enameled étui is a jewel of 18th-century craftsmanship. Fashioned in yellow gold, it is lavishly adorned with delicate seed pearls, along with painted portraits of classical maidens and exquisite floral bouquets, brought to life through vibrant enamel. Small enough to conceal discreetly, this elegant case may have been used to carry or pass correspondence and love letters. This treasure is a captivating example of the 18th century’s love of romance, ornament and refined craftsmanship.

The term étui derives from the Old French estuier, meaning “to keep” or “hold.” These compact cases could contain a variety of personal and practical objects, including letters, scissors, needles, thimbles, bodkins and writing implements.

4 1/4" high x 3/4" wide x 1/2" deep
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Gold and Enamel Étui
Period: 18th Century
Origin: France
Type: Decorative Boxes
Style: Louis XVI
Depth: 0.5 in. (1.27 cm)
Width: 0.75 in. (1.91 cm)
Height: 4.25 in. (10.8 cm)
Beauty + Functionality: Etuis
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What is an Étui?
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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

On Approval

Examine select works in person before you commit

125% Guarantee

125% Guarantee

Full credit plus 5% annual appreciation for five years

Trusted Expertise

Trusted Expertise

Over two centuries of combined experience across our specialists

Learn More

The M.S. Rau Difference

Bill Rau

Bill Rau Third-Generation Owner

Our philosophy has always been to offer clients only the very finest antiques, works of art and jewelry, and to back every transaction with the highest level of customer service. Earning your trust and delivering only the very best pieces is our top priority.

M.S. Rau is committed to offering fine art of the highest caliber and we seek paintings and sculpture by historically renowned artists, often with impressive provenance. The large majority of our works of art come from private collections; many are fresh to the market. Founded on Bill Rau’s expertise in the field, our specialisms range from Old Master pictures to Modern Art masterpieces. We regularly exhibit Dutch, Flemish, and Italian Old Masters, Academic, Orientalist, Barbizon, Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, Maritime & Sporting, British Neoclassical and American Illustration.

Our experienced fine art consultants offer personalized and confidential fine art consultation services to all clients. Whether you are looking to begin collecting art, grow an existing collection, or redefine your collecting strategy, M.S. Rau can support you on this journey.