Antique French Mother of Pearl Palais Royal Carnet du Bal, Aide d’Memoire, c.1820s

Silver fitting, lovely old treasure which might have been worn on a chatelaine or a silver chain or silk ribbon, likely had a small chain attaching it to a stylus, it would have been a spot to jot down notes, names – like a carnet du bal, into which one would note the dance number and name of the gentleman next to each as dances were spoken for at a formal ball. Sometimes called a dance card, these were often provided to each woman, to be used at the ball, and then kept as a souvenir.

Very good to excellent condition for age and type (c.1820s). Beautifully crafted, very nicely preserved, it has only very miniscule nips on a couple of corners. There is just 1 note sheet inside on this one, and the baled fitting only allows for the depth of 1 so we know it was originally this way.  Beautiful panels of pearlescent shimmer in rainbow of colors. NOTE: Shown on silk embroidery panels which are there just to add color. The little note card is what you’re buying. Needlework is not included.