(ETUI). (BOOK-LIKE OBJECTS).Ladies Companion.(England: ca. 1880?)(96 x 54 x 38 mm.)Original purple morocco with color onlays, stamped in gilt.With writing and sewing accessories, including a needle case, thimble, lace making tools, a reusable writing tablet, and quill.Leather a little scuffed and stained, accessories with minor wear, apparently a couple pieces missing (as often), but in very good condition overall.
An irresistibly charming portable "etui" holding tiny everyday essentials for writing and sewing, shaped to look like a pull-off case for a book.
Etuis (from the French word "estuier" meaning "to keep") were particularly popular among upper-class women in the 18th and 19th centuries, and were often ornately decorated, as here. They were usually outfitted with small personal items made from expensive materials such as silver, ivory, and mother of pearl, thus serving both as status symbols and practical accessories. (1112)
