Antique 18th Century to Earliest 18th Century French HP Billet Doux, Message Tube, Hearts
A beautiful old treasure, this is a billet doux, (sweet notes), into which a rolled note or invitation to tryst or meeting would be tucked, then delivered by courier to one's intended partner, lover. These were at height of use during the reign of Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette. This one is beautifully preserved and you can see the hand painted decoration includes 2 hearts, side by side. Very good to excellent for age and type. The tube is crafted in wood, hand painted, almost a Vernis Martin type of layering of oil paint and varnish, the primary motif being a forest and 2 hearts seated side by side. The case or etui is so nicely preserved, no damage to report, really. A tortoise shell inner tube, over which the cap slides on snug and well-fitting. A rim of engraved silver and one of ivory trim out the billet doux in fine order. Full measurements are noted on the photos. IMPORTANT NOTE regarding antique tortoise shell or ivory: We are great supporters of protection for endangered spe