{"product_id":"gold-and-enamel-etui-with-ladies","title":"Gold and Enamel Étui with Ladies","description":"Gold and Enamel Étui\u003cbr\u003e Likely Swiss\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1790 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 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. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The term \u003cem\u003eétui\u003c\/em\u003e derives from the Old French \u003cem\u003eestuier\u003c\/em\u003e, 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. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Bears the maker’s mark “FF” beneath a crown \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 4 1\/2\" high x 3\/4\" wide x 1\/4\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45677759463559,"sku":"32-3171","price":14850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-3171_1.png?v=1787606503","url":"https:\/\/rauantiques.com\/products\/gold-and-enamel-etui-with-ladies","provider":"M.S. Rau","version":"1.0","type":"link"}