Rare c. 1730-1780s Antique French Billet Doux in Vernis Martin Stain, Figural ramekin probably gilded

probably gilded

or as a single longer chain for shoulder bag use

They don't have much of a lip for drip

The artist's signature appears on this beautiful portrait

Rare c. 1730-1780s Antique French Billet Doux in Vernis Martin Stain, Figural ramekin probably gildedBillet doux, quite literally "sweet note" that is term and purpose of these rare wonderful bits of the 1700s past. This one is spectacular with hand painted scenes of 1700s life, including a couple and their baby in carriage (see images). Some would misidentify this as a cigar case, and I suppose one could use it that way, but it's not what the item is. These are truly fascinating old treasures of the era of Marie Antoinette and shortly before