© The Kyoto Costume Institute, photo by Tohru Kogure
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Letter case
Late 1770s - unknown (Country)
- Material
- Red silk faille; flap pockets on both sides; silk embroidery in chain stitch; braid trimming on flaps and edges.
- Dimension
- approximately 17cm (length)/22cm (width)
- Inventory Number(s)
- AC5775 88-19-4
A rectangular bifold letter case that features a symmetrical motif, embroidered in chain stitch, on both the inside and outside of the case. The four corners of the outside of the case are decorated with a flower pattern, and a heart with three lines emerging from the top is positioned in the center. The same flower pattern and heart motif can be seen inside the case, with the words QUAND ON AiME (when in love) embroidered on one side, and TOUT EST PLAISiR (everything is pleasure) embroidered on the other.
Letter cases have been in use since the 17th century to store letters and important documents and were made from a wide range of materials such as leather, silk and straw, while the shape was also varied, including bifold and cylindrical cases. Letter cases were also produced as gifts and souvenirs. Motifs frequently seen in letter cases include those symbolizing love, such as cupids, a burning heart, or Venus, the goddess of love, and dogs, which symbolized loyalty. These motifs also frequently featured in 18th century paintings and decorative items such as snuff boxes and fans.
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