Description
Ottoman Parcel Gilt-Silver Thread Embroidered Leather Wallet with Baroque-Style Design and Royal French Connections
Origin: Constantinople (Istanbul), Ottoman Empire
Period: Dated 1782 AD
Material: Red Rose Dyed Morocco Leather, Gilt-Silver and Silver Thread Embroidery
This rare and exquisite Ottoman Morocco leather wallet, of rectangular form, is richly decorated with gilt-silver and plain silver thread embroidery, reflecting the influence of Baroque-style motifs and the fusion of Ottoman and European artistic traditions.
Commissioned in Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul) in 1782 AD, the wallet features a combined intricate calligraphical with floral designs characteristic of Ottoman ornamentation techniques, infused with the elaborate and ornate aesthetics of Baroque design.
The frontside displays two inscriptions: the first, located beneath the wallet flap, reads “Constantinople” alongside the date 1782, marking the wallet’s manufacture.
Below this, a French inscription, “La C’ji De Montoallon,” suggests the wallet may have been intended for a French noblewoman or aristocrat, adding unique historical intrigue.
This date places the wallet firmly in the period before the French Revolution (1789-1794), when Royal families and nobility were still prominent in France, further emphasizing its association with the upper echelons of society.
The reverse side features a simpler floral design created with alternating gilt-silver and plain silver wires, forming a harmonious contrast. At the centre lies a regal crest, composed of two shields.
The left shield bears a castle, symbolizing strength, while the right shield is divided into small equal square sections, creating a geometric motif.
This crest is flanked by a palm wreath, ribbon border, and papillon, surmounted by a crown—an unmistakable symbol of nobility and Royal association.
The symmetrical, highly decorative elements surrounding the crest reflect the Baroque style, known for its dramatic and detailed approach to design.
In a later period, the wallet was adapted with the addition of a Tunisian gilt metal stud press button, reflecting its continued use and preservation over time.
This adaptation highlights the wallet’s evolving journey across different cultures and regions, enhancing its story and uniqueness.
Provenance and Historical Significance
The journey of this piece underscores a rich multinational narrative. Initially conceptualized in Europe, the crest and design were created and sent to Constantinople, where Ottoman artisans—renowned for their embroidery and leatherwork—brought the design to life using fine Morocco leather, known for its softness and durability.
Upon completion, the wallet returned to Europe, symbolizing the vibrant exchange of artistic traditions between regions.
The incorporation of Baroque-inspired floral and heraldic motifs further demonstrates the cross-cultural influences in this piece.
The wallet’s luxurious red rose-dyed Morocco leather provides the perfect backdrop for the combination of gilt-silver and plain silver thread embroidery.
The alternating use of thin silver wires—some gilded and others left in their natural state—produces a striking contrast that enhances the floral patterns and crest.
This meticulous attention to detail is evident throughout the wallet, creating visual harmony and showcasing the mastery of Ottoman craftsmanship.
The interior of the wallet is lined with fine green silk, adding a touch of luxury. Although the silk shows signs of age and partial damage, it remains largely intact, contributing to the overall refinement of the piece.
Why This Wallet is an Exceptional Collectible
- Royal Provenance: The crowned crest and luxurious materials indicate noble and royal connections.
- Dual Inscriptions: The combination of the Constantinople 1782 inscription and the French dedication enhances the wallet’s rarity and historical significance.
- Historical Context: The wallet was crafted before the French Revolution, during a time when the French aristocracy and royal families flourished.
- Baroque Influence: The intricate floral motifs and symmetrical patterns draw inspiration from Baroque-style design, blending European and Ottoman artistic elements.
- Decorative Harmony: Alternating gilt-silver and plain silver wires create captivating contrasts across the wallet’s floral designs and crest.
- Premium Material: Crafted from high-quality Morocco leather, prized for its softness and durability.
- Collector’s Appeal: Perfect for collectors of royal artifacts, Ottoman antiques, and historical leatherwork.
This Ottoman gilt-silver and silver embroidered Baroque-style Morocco leather wallet is not just an object of function—it is a remarkable historical artifact representing the convergence of Ottoman, French, and Tunisian craftsmanship. A rare and exceptional addition to any collection, this wallet reflects the luxury and grandeur of 18th-century design.
