A LOUIS XVIII EMBROIDERED, METAL-THREAD AND SILK SATIN ARMORIAL SMALL PORTFOLIO FIRST QUARTER 19TH CENTURY, LOUIS XVIII REIGNED 1814-1824 |

delicately worked in chenille, silk and metal-threads and spangles, against a warm ivory coloured silk satin ground, the front with a shaped flap, with a gilt-metal shell and shield shaped clasp, the design worked with a radiant sun cartouche enclosing the entwined ‘L’ cypher, the lower corners of the portfolio applied with a metal-thread fleur-de-lys motif, the edges worked with design of scrolling trail of berried oak and laurel, the reverse similarly worked, and centred with the coat-of-arms of the Duke of Bourbon, surmounted with a crown, and with the collar and Maltese cross, each corner worked with the motif of a cornucopia filled with fruiting grape vines, opening to reveal two concertinaed compartments, and inner envelope slim dividing compartment

Sotheby's, Monaco, 21 February 1988, lot 677

Colour of the satin ground is creamier in reality and not as white as visible in the catalogue/on-line images. More attractive in reality, and the colour of the silk ground is not as startling. Overall in very good condition, minor tarnishing to the spangle detailing in areas, for example to the appliqued trail around the edges. Satin ground, does not lay completely flat and has little ripples in places, as visible in the photograph. There are some very minor darker shaped marks, only visible in certain light, at certain angle, on the front of the portfolio. It is extremely finely worked, with charming details and profuse use of metal-thread. Reverse is in extremely good condition. Very attractive and historic piece.
"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."