Antique French Napoleon III Era Tortoise Shell Purse, Fitted Cigar Case Perhaps? Pietrovich 1st a most spectacular little treasure

a most spectacular little treasure

The outer measurement is 7

They have been well preserved and protected beneath the original slightly convex cover glass

The seed pearls are iconographically identified as the tears of the mourner

Antique French Napoleon III Era Tortoise Shell Purse, Fitted Cigar Case Perhaps? Pietrovich 1st a most spectacular little treasureIn the same shape and size as the typical cigar cases made of tortoise shell during the same era, Napoleon III, Victorian era, the surprise is that it opens to reveal itself as a purse or rather uniquely fitted minaudire. Moire silk lining with mirror and 2 wallet like compartments centered by a lipstick holder. It is possible it might have come with a small powder and rouge pot in those side pockets. So unique, though. I used to use my cigar cases