18th Century Billet Doux Love Letter Case Vernis Martin Circa 1770

We are very excited to tempt you with this stunning 1770s Billet Doux, or love letter case. Billet Doux translates as 'sweet letter'. This will make the perfect luxury gift. This is just one of a small private English collection of love letter cases, please see last image.

This romantic cylindrical case is decorated in the highly lacquered maroon red and very fine black striped Vernis Martin which was sooo fashionable at this period. In fact Marie Antoinette was a fan of Vernis Martin objects, she adored the complicated method of layering pigments and varnish to create this very tactile lacquered effect. The top and base has concentric white circles, indicating never ending love. Decorating the circumference of top and bottom are tiny little gold lacquered fancy pips. The center where the Billet Doux opens has both of its gold collars (untested but usually 18 carat). Complete with original liner, this is a gem for your boudoir collection from a time when clandestine love letters passed between lovers!!

Size: 4 3/4 inch long (12 cm) by approx 3/4 inch (17 mm) diameter

Condition: Very good but as you would expect after 254 years not quite pristine. Very fine stable crazing to the Vernis Martin surface. Opens and closes well, remains of an old collectors label on liner which we have left as part of its history. As seen in our many images, half of a gold pip decoration missing and a very old knock to the surface at the base.

Item id:15481