Description

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An exquisite early 18th century French tortoiseshell jewel casket or Coffret en Ecaille. With a sectional domed top the tortoiseshell backed with gold foil. In untouched condition with superbly detailed ormolu mounts formed as female terms on lions paw feet to each of the corners. The carrying handles formed as twin-tailed mermaids. The escutcheon formed as a heart shaped shield flanked by satyrs and surmounted by a ducal coronet whilst the lock retains its original key. The reverse with elaborately pierced and chased ormolu hinges and the lid (with an additional handle) opens to reveal the interior lined with contemporary crimson silk damask.
Circa: 1720 Width: 21cm Depth: 11cm Height: 13cm