Fine Jewellery - 31st October 2024
Lot 557
A rare gold and enamel almanac charm pendant, France, late 18th century, designed as a book, the
Estimate £800 - £1,200 | Hammer £1512
Inc. Buyers Premium
Description
A rare gold and enamel almanac charm pendant, France, late 18th century, designed as a book, the front and back covers applied with blue and white enamel, each centring on an oval grisaille enamel landscape, opening to reveal a printed book titled 'Le Reveil Matin Almanach Pour L'Année 1777 A Paris', pendant length 2.6cm including later jump ring
Miniature almanacs were popular in Paris from the early 1760s, and typically contained a list of saint's days for the year ahead, alongside illustrations of various street vendors and related poems. Created as gifts for young ladies, they were also used as New Year’s presents, given out by pastry shops and chocolatiers.