Antique French Palais Royal Mother of Pearl, Ormolu Souvenir Notebook Aide Memoire 18k w Turquoise
A rare and superb 18th century to very earliest 19th century French Palais Royal aide de memoire, notepad cover, carnet du bal with 2 glorious panels of carved mother of pearl set into gilt ormolu framework that is trimmed with cabochons of Persian turquoise (some missing), and of course set both front and back with the small 18k gold oval medallion and its signature kiln-fired enamel flower - symbol of many fine items sold in 18th to early 19th century boutiques of the famed Palais Royal, former palace of Cardinal Richelieu. Best of best objects, accoutrement, home and voyage goods, much sought after still today. This one is thick at 1/2" with a solid hinged spine, and ringed closure into which a stylus or pencil inserts to act as its closure. While the old notepad and card case or holder that original was inside has not lasted the years, it would be simple to make one to fit and actually use this one, a little necessaire. Measurements shown on photos. Very good to excellent conditio