Antique French Tortoise Shell Coin Purse c. 1860 Inlaid with Pewter and Abalone

Antiques : Accessories

 

Good antique French small coin purse. Inlay or pique is intricate and well executed; flowers and leaves are in both pewter and abalone, or mother of pearl. I think there is too much color for mother of pearl. Also, the stems appear to be made of gold. The original silk lining is in good condition, with some minor fraying at the very bottom of the purse. The purse is in good overall condition. There is a very small hairline at the hinge on one side. The pewter shield in not monogrammed, hence it is available for the new owner's initials! The tortoise shell is quite thick, comprising the entire purse rather than attached to the metal body of the purse as is often the case. It's a nice size, too: 3 1/3" long, 2" wide & 1" deep! A superior product at a superior low! price.

Item ID: 21