Images(2)

Pocketbook

Date1777

OriginEngland

MediumLeather, paper, iron/steel, linen stitching threads, gilded lettering

DimensionsClosed 7 1/8 x 5 1/4" Stylus 6 1/4" long

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1975-129

DescriptionMan's rectangular folding memo pocketbook of dark brown Morocco leather, stamped in gold with the owner's name, William Daniel, and the date 1777. The pocketbook closes with a strap that slides beneath a leather tab. Open, the pocketbook has two brown leather compartments lined with red and white marbleized paper. A memo book fastened inside has marbleized paper cover and alternating white laid paper leaves and stiffened black leaves, similar to a "blackboard" writing surface. Slot for metal stylus pencil is located under flap. Stylus for holding lead is a hollow metal instrument with a cap at end.
Label TextWilliam Daniel had his wallet personalized with his name and the date 1777. Inside is a notebook with marbleized covers. The note pages include paper, as well as black leaves covered in paint with carbon content, similar to a slate, for making easily erasable notes.
InscribedWILLIAM DANIEL 1777 (stamped on front).
Hand-written inscription on black paper inside case reads: "This old note case came to me from my cousin Frank HANKINS of New[?] Glos: & belonged to his family. (The slate pencil is in front of flap[.] [ ? ] S. Hall 1940 [or 1946]."
ProvenancePencil inscription on black leaf inside indicates the case came from the Hankins family of Glos: [Gloucestershire].

Exhibition(s)