• Period:
  18th Century
• Origin:
  England/Ireland

 This rare and remarkable 18th-century gold and bloodstone étui was one of the most luxurious items one could own. Almost certainly crafted in England and imported to France in the mid- to late- 19th century, it was once used to pass secret messages. The entire form of solid bloodstone is encased in gold cagework in the Dresden style, with curvaceous Rococo lines that resemble acanthus leaf vines and scrolls. The bloodstone adds to the impression of a mysterious forest-like world filled with eagles, putti and two colonial gentlemen enjoying the hunt. Once used by important members of the royal court to pass correspondences, the étui would have been sealed with wax to secure the privacy of its contents while en route. Bloodstone is also a fitting material to use, as it has long been thought to possess the power of protection, and would been perfect for protecting the étui's contents from prying eyes.

This étui's flawlessness reflects the 18th-century taste for dynamic forms, livelier outlines, and delicate, intricate ornamentation. Objects made at this time became increasingly diverse, with a dazzling new variety of types, forms, techniques, and combinations of materials. Very similar snuffboxes have been housed in such prestigious museums and collections as the Louvre in Paris, Russia's Hermitage, the Victoria and Albert Museum in London and the Rosalinde and Arthur Gilbert collection. 

Bears French import marks for 1864-1893

Circa 1750

5" length