Sealing wax case (étui) 1789 - 1790

This sealing wax case was crafted by Jean-François Mancel, and it’s made out of gold. The case has a rectangular form, which reflects the artist's knowledge of goldsmithing and metalworking techniques. The intricate designs that border the case combine hand-made engraving with a geometric aesthetic. Artisans like Mancel were very skilled in creating symmetrical compositions. He paid attention to detail, giving the case’s surface a tactile dimension with a luxurious feeling. Consider the context in which this object was made. Gold was a valuable material, and this case would have been commissioned by a wealthy person for personal use. The fact that the artist took great care in designing this object shows how he viewed materials and the importance of the patron. When we look at objects like this sealing wax case, we can understand how deeply materials, making, and context shape meaning, challenging the separation of art and craft.