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Gold and Enamel Étui with Ladies
Gold and Enamel Étui with Ladies
Gold and Enamel Étui with Ladies
Gold and Enamel Étui with Ladies

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Gold and Enamel Étui with Ladies

  • This remarkably rare étui is a superb example of the luxury objects prized in 18th-century Europe
  • The étui is crafted entirely in yellow gold and richly decorated with enamel
  • Both sides feature painted oval cartouches depicting a young lady, framed by delicate ornament
  • Designed to hold small personal implements, étuis were prized as both useful accessories and miniature works of art
  • Get complete item description here
$14,850
Item No. 32-3171

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Description
Gold and Enamel Étui
Likely Swiss
Circa 1790

This remarkably rare étui is a superb example of the luxury objects prized in 18th-century Europe. Crafted entirely in yellow gold and richly decorated with enamel, it combines exceptional craftsmanship with the refined taste of the period. Both sides feature painted oval cartouches depicting a young lady, framed by delicate ornament against a deep blue enamel ground. Neoclassical columns, scrolling garlands and other finely rendered details. . .
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Gold and Enamel Étui
Likely Swiss
Circa 1790

This remarkably rare étui is a superb example of the luxury objects prized in 18th-century Europe. Crafted entirely in yellow gold and richly decorated with enamel, it combines exceptional craftsmanship with the refined taste of the period. Both sides feature painted oval cartouches depicting a young lady, framed by delicate ornament against a deep blue enamel ground. Neoclassical columns, scrolling garlands and other finely rendered details complete the elegant design. Designed to hold small personal implements, étuis were prized as both useful accessories and miniature works of art.

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 scissors, needles, thimbles, bodkins and writing implements. Their elaborate decoration made them especially fashionable among the European elite during the 18th century.

Bears the maker’s mark “FF” beneath a crown

4 1/2" high x 3/4" wide x 1/4" deep
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Gold and Enamel Étui with Ladies
Period: 18th Century
Origin: Switzerland
Type: Decorative Boxes
Style: Louis XVI
Depth: 0.25 in. (0.64 cm)
Width: 0.75 in. (1.91 cm)
Height: 4.5 in. (11.43 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

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Bill Rau

Bill Rau Third-Generation Owner

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