Tortoise shells were used by the ancient Greeks and Romans as inlays in furniture to display wealth.  Tortoise shell jewelry and small trinket boxes were introduced by André Charles Boulle, cabinetmaker to Louis XIV of France in the 1600’s. Boulle perfected the art of marquetry combining thin inlays of tortoise shell backed with metal and woods. Today the tortoise shell trade has been outlawed. Hence, the value of vintage pieces is increasing. However, there are many fine imitation products you can find. This photo is of an imitation tortoise shell box set on a modern day cocktail table. 


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