Sealing wax case (étui) 1783 - 1784

This is a small cylindrical box made by French goldsmith, Joseph Etienne Blerzy, between 1783 and 1784. The "Sealing Wax Case" is adorned with a delicate pattern of stars and has two bands of silver that are studded with tiny pearls. This fine example of decorative arts is on display in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. This piece is representative of the luxurious and elaborate craftsmanship of the late 18th century in France. The case would have been used to hold sealing wax, a substance used to seal letters and documents.