Oval Gilt and Turquoise Casket

A beautiful late nineteenth century (C1880) gilt metal oval casket,  the cover applied with white metal engraved flora and bejewelled with turquoise. Turquoise is a semi precious stone, used here for the flower heads, often given in friendship, as a talisman of good fortune. The stone has many other well-being properties. When associated with the miniature watercolour of a romantic couple (signed Pinto, JJ de Souza Pinto fl 1882, exhibited a portrait at the RA, London address), it is very clear that this item was given as a love token to a lady as a dressing table piece. It does not require cleaning (like brass), but a damp wipe and dry buff is all that is needed to keep it looking its best.