Sealing wax case (étui) 1774

This is a sealing wax case, or 'étui,' crafted by Melchior-René Barré in the 18th century, a period defined by rigid social hierarchies and burgeoning artistic expression. Made from gold, this piece is an intimate glimpse into the life of the elite. During this era, the act of sealing letters was deeply personal, thus, this 'étui' speaks volumes about the rituals of communication and the importance of appearances. The delicate engravings of birds and floral patterns are not mere decoration, but convey messages of love, fidelity, and social status. Consider the hands that would have held this case—the hands of aristocrats, writing letters that dictated affairs of the heart, diplomacy, and commerce. What alternative narratives might emerge if we imagine this case in different hands? The hands of those whose stories were rarely documented, yet whose labor supported the opulence of the era? This piece is a reminder of the complexities inherent in objects of beauty, inviting us to reflect on the stories they tell and the voices they often silence.