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 condition for age and type, you’ll note a flaw is that it’s missing some of the turquoise jewel cabochons both front and back. The jeweled ones are rare, and one might want to either replace the front missing ones with those still on backside, or to locate replacements in jewelry making supply resources and fill all the spots missing theirs. These are Persian turquoise. There is another flaw on the back side, where one Empire corner ornament has gone missing. Otherwise, very lovely and ormolu retains high gold surface even without any polish. No damage at all to either of the elegantly incised mother of pearl panels, which are high-pearlescent shimmering jewelry-like on their own account. A beauty!