Rare Antique Faux Tortoise Shell Writer's Folio or Blotter, Silver Pique Inlay, Tortoiseshell

Rare Antique Faux Tortoise Shell Writer's Folio or Blotter, Silver Pique Inlay, Tortoiseshell

Absolutely gorgeous & rare antique French Napoleon III era 12" writer's folio or blotter cover, a majestic piece in solid faux shell with ornate sterling silver pique style inlay! Isn't this one fabulous! The entire front panel is a massive section of natural deep cognac colored shell! Sterling silver overlay trim around the edges, swags & ribbon top and bottom and a stunning inlaid silver ensemble across the center. All original front & back, the binding has been restored with a black leather section and there is some wear inside. Opened, the shell is visible from the inside, with a raised framework and a pocket on the back. I'm sure that there would originally been thick, pulp style blotter paper in between but that's a detail that can be easily overlooked given the truly magnificent facade! A beauty, don't miss it!

Good condition. There is a small section of the silver overlay trim missing from the bottom of the front, also the small ribbon segments from the lower swags are missing. No lifting, separation or losses to the silver inlay and no chips or cracks to that large natural panel. As noted, the hinge or binding has been replaced with a black strip of leather. The interior is lined in a red moire silk that does have some edge tears or losses. The back of the folio has a burgundy leather cover that does have some small scuffs but is entirely intact. See pictures for measurements.

NOTE This item will be handled and shipped from our Utah office, and is not available to California customers, sorry.

Item ID: 311folio

NOTE This item will be handled and shipped from our Utah office, and is not available to California customers, sorry. Please see our small print for more details.

$1,016 USD SOLD