Mid 18th century AD. A rectangular case for a book (boîte-étui) with hinged lid, leather covered over a light wooden frame; three-band concentric gilt tooling to the broad faces, decorative brass clasp. 340 grams, 20.3cm (8"). Ex central London gallery; previously with Antoine Boccador, 2005; accompanied by copies of the relevant catalogue pages. The French auction catalogue entry states: 'A very rare example of [one of] these boxes intended to protect precious books or prayer-books. Few examples are still known and held in public or private collections; some small defects and a small tear on the upper face. [No Reserve]