Nécessaire 1730 - 1765

"Nécessaire," a small, intricately crafted box made of agate and gilt bronze, dates from 1730-1765 and was created by Joseph Martineau, Sr. The box, housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is a beautiful example of Rococo style, evident in the ornate details and swirling patterns. It is likely that this "nécessaire" was used to store personal items like jewelry, writing utensils, or other small trinkets. The box's elaborate decoration and compact size would have made it an ideal gift for a wealthy patron during the Rococo period.