Love Letter Case / Wax Seal In Gold & Martin Varnish. Late 18th - Early 19th Century.

Magnificent wax case forming a seal.

The case is cylindrical, made of wood covered with a black Martin-type varnish.

The base forms a gold seal with the monogram "PS" (??).
Gold rings also adorn the top of the cap and the opening.
The male part of the seal's body, which fits into the lid, is also covered with a gold plate.

The gold parts are hallmarked:

Partially visible (on the gold sleeve, partly in the body of the case): a man's head facing forward, a hallmark for medium gold used between 1798 and 1809.

Partially visible and difficult to identify, but probably: a rooster in an oval for 3rd standard gold used in Paris between 1798 and 1809.

A partially legible goldsmith's mark (J?M) to be identified.

A later eagle's head. Punched twice, once with force and fury, which has torn the case.

Magnificent case, with a wide and beautiful gold mount. A charming testament to the art of living at the turn of the 18th century, still marked by the customs and traditions of the Ancien Régime.

12.5 cm long

2.1 cm in diameter

23.68 grams gross

Good condition for its age. Some minor losses to the varnish; the lower ring of the lid is missing, there is a small tear in the ring above the die, and a hole left by the punch.

Collection in person in Paris or shipping via insured Colissimo.

France: €15
Europe: €20
Rest of the world: €35