A Gold, Enamel, Tortoiseshell and Ivory Boîte-à-Miniature, P. Simon, Paris, Circa 1815

rectangular with cut corners, the lid set with an oval ivory portrait miniature of Marie-Louise, Duchess of Parma and Empress of the French, signed and dated ‘Bordes 1815’ to lower left, in a gold frame within chased scrollwork and outer dark blue enamel rim, the tortoiseshell body lined in gold, maker’s mark, Paris bear’s head troisieme titre, Paris grosse garantie 1819-1838, later French control marks, with modern red leather case 

Length 3 ⅛ in.

7.9 cm

This lot contains ivory. Commercial trade in ivory is regulated by multiple governments and international organizations around the world, including through prohibitions, restrictions, and individual circumstances and the relevant auction / sale. Sotheby's therefore recommends that, before taking any action in relation to a potential purchase or handling of an ivory item, buyers obtain advice on the regimes and requirements applicable to them. Sotheby's will also not conduct any applications for buyers for exemption certificates, CITES licenses, registrations, or similar that may be required, including renewal or update of the same, or arrange or import or export permits needed for international shipping. A buyer's inability or delay to obtain necessary documentation, or lawfully arrange the export or import of the lot will not justify sale cancellation or a delay in payment.