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Gold Étui in Original Case
Gold Étui in Original Case
Gold Étui in Original Case
Gold Étui in Original Case
Gold Étui in Original Case
Gold Étui in Original Case
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Gold Étui in Original Case

  • This stunning Louis XVI-era French étui is crafted entirely of gold
  • It was crafted by master goldsmith Jacques Martin Petitjean
  • 18th-century gold objets d'art of this superior workmanship are incredibly rare
  • These ornamental cases could hold secret letters and even small personal effects
  • Get complete item description here
$16,850
Item No. 32-0578

To speak to one of our experts, call 1-888-711-8084

Description
Gold Étui in Original Case
Jacques Martin Petitjean
Circa 1777

Expertly engraved entirely of yellow gold, this remarkably rare Louis XVI-era étui is a work of art. Resplendent columns and garlands adorn the stunning neoclassical design, which would once have been used to carry diminutive objects, such as secret correspondence between lovers or pieces of wax to melt down and use when sealing documents. At the étui's base is an intricately carved wax seal,. . .
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Gold Étui in Original Case
Jacques Martin Petitjean
Circa 1777

Expertly engraved entirely of yellow gold, this remarkably rare Louis XVI-era étui is a work of art. Resplendent columns and garlands adorn the stunning neoclassical design, which would once have been used to carry diminutive objects, such as secret correspondence between lovers or pieces of wax to melt down and use when sealing documents. At the étui's base is an intricately carved wax seal, allowing one to conveniently seal their letter with their coat-of-arms before depositing it inside the étui for delivery. Stunning in its artistry and beauty, and perfectly preserved in its original green leather case this étui flawlessly reflects the 18th-century taste for classical refinement and delicate, intricate ornamentation. 

Derived from the Old French word “estuier,” meaning “to keep or hold,” the étui was a remarkably versatile accessory. While some were employed for discreet exchanges, others held essential tools such as scissors, thimbles, bodkins, needles, makeup pencils or even a doctor’s lancet. This particular example bears the inscription "ROLLAND," likely indicating its original owner.

Features French gold marks for Jacques Martin Petitjean, circa 1777

Étui: 4 3/4" high x 3/4" wide x 5/8" deep
Case: 5" high x 1 1/8" wide x 7/8" deep
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Gold Étui in Original Case
Period: 18th Century
Origin: France
Type: Decorative Boxes
Style: Louis XVI
Depth: 0.63 in. (1.59 cm)
Width: 0.75 in. (1.91 cm)
Height: 4.75 in. (12.07 cm)
Gold Étui in Original Case
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Gold Étui in Original Case
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Buy with Confidence

At M.S. Rau, we are committed to building a long-term, rewarding relationship with each and every client. That’s why your purchase is backed by our 125% guarantee.

Learn More

The M.S. Rau Difference

The M.S. Rau Difference

The M.S. Rau Difference

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.

-Bill Rau, Third-Generation Owner

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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. . .

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.

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For more than a century, M.S. Rau has offered clients a superb selection of the highest quality jewelry. From the rarest colored diamonds, to the most sublime gemstones, to the most exquisite designer jewelry, M.S. Rau houses. . .

For more than a century, M.S. Rau has offered clients a superb selection of the highest quality jewelry. From the rarest colored diamonds, to the most sublime gemstones, to the most exquisite designer jewelry, M.S. Rau houses an extraordinary collection of fine jewels to satisfy the most discerning collector. Stunning creations by Tiffany & Co., Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Harry Winston and Patek Philippe are offered alongside extreme rarities such as vivid yellow, pink and blue diamonds, coveted Burma and Kashmir sapphires and elusive Golconda diamonds prized for their fire and perfection. Iconic jewels from the Art Deco, Edwardian, Art Nouveau and Victorian periods round out the collection.

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Since 1912, M.S. Rau has been recognized as a leader in the antiques industry and today our collections of rare silver, furniture, clocks, porcelain, glass and objets d'art are second to none. Our commitment to curating the. . .

Since 1912, M.S. Rau has been recognized as a leader in the antiques industry and today our collections of rare silver, furniture, clocks, porcelain, glass and objets d'art are second to none. Our commitment to curating the world’s most extraordinary and beautiful treasures has remained steadfast and our acquisition philosophy is simple: seek out and acquire only the very finest works whose provenance, beauty and rarity set them apart from all others. Our clients can be certain that each and every piece in our gallery has been hand-selected and carefully vetted for authenticity, condition and provenance. And, because our network of contacts spans generations, we are often able to acquire pieces that may have otherwise never been available on the market.

Whether you are just starting your collection, adding to an existing collection or even decorating your home, our team’s knowledge and experience can assist you in your endeavor. We have services and procedures in place to make your acquisition process both enjoyable and efficient.