Featured Mystery Hexagonal Case (1870s-1910-ish?)

Mystery item! I hope someone can help me.

I bought this for next to nothing, from a lady who was getting rid of a whole heap of junk. It was about the only thing on her stall at the flea-market that I considered had any sort of value. Problem is, I have no idea what it is.

What would one call this sort of case, and what purpose did it fulfill? I just can't figure it out. Everything is original (I added the thimble separately, it didn't come with one. The thimble is sterling silver), and the implements are all made of bone.

 

Some are are for working with ribbon.
Maybe AWL, not sure.

 

It's called a necessaire.

 

Thanks. I've had people suggest etui, and necessaire. Wasn't sure which term was more applicable.

 

Here's your ribbon threader and bone sewing tools.
https://www.worthpoint.com/worthopedia/set-antique-vintage-ribbon-lace-537449378
https://www.google.com/search?q=bon...Lq6KTbAhWBe7wKHRT9AIUQsAQIJg&biw=1299&bih=640
All appear to be circa 1910-1920.
cheers
Stephen

 

I guess etui and necessaire are frequently used interchangeably, but I think of an etui as being a more refined case, more compact, and generally opening from the end. (That's how i think of them... it's not a definition, and no doubt I would eventually contradict myself.) I don't think all necessaires are etuis, and not all etuis are necessaires.

 

I believe that hook is for lacing up high button shoes.....pulling the laces tighter...... the two bigger steel needles look more like they're for upholstery repair.....as well as the seriously curved steel needle I JUST saw!!!

 

The curved needles are definitely upholstery needles. I'm not entire sure of the rest.

 

Ummmmmm......button hook....

https://www.ebay.com/itm/antique-bu...948117?hash=item5b46ce48d5:g:J3cAAOSwhjRauoWj

 

This Lady's Personal Travel Sewing Set is in wonderful condition. It contains: Scissors, Thimble (Size 8), Nail Tool, Crochet Hook, Button Hook, Awl, Lace Knitting Needles, Perfume Bottle Opener, and a Tatting Tool. The handles of the various tools are smooth bone. The case is lined in silk and velvet and is in excellent condition. The outside leather of the case is in excellent condition. It appears that this grouping of tools was assembled for specific personal needs, rather than as a matching set..........

 

no laces.....on them old boots...

 

@Poisonivy , here is something for you.

I'd call it a necessaire as well.

 

It's a sewing kit/set...
I've had them in the past with various items in them, hardly any survive with the original items, over the years they get worn or lost and replaced.

 

Love that this one includes a cork screw. Probably the most necessary item of all if you were a woman in that era.

 

AH well, so my MEMORY says I was PARTIALLY correct.....I got the High Button Shoes part right.....just no laces.....DUUUUHHH!!!

 

just goes to show....you're not 'that' old !!!

 

If you're still selling, old Victorian era sewing stuff still sells handily.

 

Yes, it is my intention to sell it