1730'S RARE GOLD-STUDDED MOTHER-OF-PEARL DRAGEOIR The box is oval, domed on both sides in mother-of-pearl, and opens to an oval lid. Engraved decoration of lambrequins in relief studded with tiny yellow gold nails on both sides. The lid is also finely studded with yellow gold. Mounted in moulded 18K yellow gold. Gross weight: 74.47 g. Dimensions: 8.2 x 6 x 2.6 cm approx. Provenance: Acquired by the collectors from Pescheteau-Badin-Ferrien, Drouot March 1990. A MASTERPIECE FOR A GOLD-STITCHED WORK Since the time of Louis XIII, there have been very few works in shell, ivory or tortoise shell that have been stitched or inlaid with gold. It is therefore exceptional to present such an object in this collection. The specialist authors mention the name of Devair in France, who began in 1723 and developed the secrets of perfecting gold nails on these fragile materials. It is also reported that the finest examples were made in 'brodé d'or' after the Regency period under the reign of Louis XV. Biliography: Snowman Kenneth, Eighteenth Century Gold Boxes of Europe, Ed. Antique Collectors Club Dist, 1990. An oval mother-of-pearl drageoir, opening to an oval-shaped lid. Engraved decoration of raised lambrequins studded with tiny yellow gold nails on both sides. Lid decorated with crosses, also finely studded with yellow gold. In moulded 18K yellow gold. Gross weight : 74,47 gr. Dimensions : 8,2 x 6 x 2,6 cm approx. Provenance : Acquired by collectors at auction, Pescheteau-Badin-Ferrien, Drouot March 1990.