Patch box
Applied Arts
Inventory number
2022.2.23.23ab.AA.BX.C1780.FRDescription
Small round box in tortoiseshell, covered with white lacquer, decorated on the lid with an oval brass frame with dot pattern, enclosing under glass wheat sheaves, a symbol of fertility and prosperity, in hair with golden tops on mother of pearl background.The wheat sheaf was one of the more common symbols used in late 18th century Neoclassical objects and jewellery, a symbol that was popular not only for its meaning, but as it was highly conducive for hairwork. It can also be found in mourning wreaths, brooches, lockets, rings, or woven with gold wire.
Materials
TortoiseshellLacquer
Hair
Glass
Brass
Mother-of-pearl
Origin
circa 1780 FranceDimensions
Width : 4.5 cmLength : 4.5 cm
Height : 2 cm