'CACHET À 50 DEVISES'. A MOTHER OF PEARL-HANDLED DESK SEAL WITH CHANGEABLE MATRICES, WITH TRADE LABEL FOR BRASSEUX AINÉ, PALAIS ROYAL, PARIS, CIRCA 1816 | 'Cachet à 50 devises'. A mother of pearl-handled desk seal with changeable matrices, with trade label for Brasseux Ainé, Palais Royal, Paris, circa 1816

the rectangular red morocco case tooled with the marriage arms of the Duc and Duchesse de Berry, containing the pommel-shaped mother of pearl handle and 49 metal matrices (one lacking) each engraved with different mottos and devices

Marie Caroline of Naples and Sicily, Duchesse de Berry (1798-1870), married Charles Ferdinand, Duc de Berry(1778-1820), on 17 June 1816. A green wax impression of the marriage arms and a Paris porcelain plaque painted with them were sold, Sotheby's London, 14 April 2011, lots 187 & 188.

Overall good condition, slight surface scratches and wear commensurate with age. One metal matrix missing.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The label engraved with images of the devices above: Cachet à 50 devises / 3e Collection / Par brevet d'invention, de perfectionnement, et d'addition / à Paris, chez Brasseux Ainé, Graveur Cé. du Roi / et de S.A.R, Mr le Duc de Nemours / Palais Royal, No. 33, Galerie Richelieu'