A varnished Martin love letter case, Paris circa 1770

A very fine cylindrical case of the "love note" type*, made of tortoiseshell and papier-mâché. It is decorated with polychrome Vernis Martin varnish depicting a seascape after the works of Joseph Vernet (1714-1789).
On a calm, slightly rippled sea, several large ships can be seen at anchor in the harbor. They are meticulously painted, and numerous details are visible, such as the number of decks, masts, gun ports, and sails. Smoke and the glow of a fire on the quay indicate preparations for caulking the hulls of ships. In the center, richly dressed members of the nobility are disembarking from a longboat, while on the quayside, strollers watch the unloading of large stone blocks.

The decoration is exquisitely detailed.

Silver mount, tortoiseshell sleeve.

Parisian work, circa 1770.

Dimensions:

Height: 14.5 cm; Width: 2.5 cm

*Love notes are cylindrical cases, approximately 20 cm long, that discreetly carry amorous or secret messages to be passed surreptitiously. The morning toilette was the preferred time for sending love notes.
It could have several compartments, one end containing the message, the other housing a miniature crystal perfume bottle or swoon salts.