Bidspirit auction | Billet doux, England, 18th century

Billet doux, England, 18th century - Height x diameter: 13.2 x 2 cm. Weight: 38.5 g made of mother-of-pearl, it was designed to hold love notes, invitations to clandestine meetings and confidential messages, which were sent by courier to the beloved. During the period of Marie Antoinette, in the second half of the 18th century, especially among the elite and the titled classes, these small containers allowed for the discreet exchange of words of love. The message was written, rolled up and inserted into the tube, then closed and sometimes sealed with a small wax seal or cachet to prevent prying eyes, even from one's trusted courier. The object is presented in a contemporary container.