France or England, circa 1845-1865.
A substantial mid-19th century steel chatelaine (belt not included).
The chatelaine is constructed in steel and fitted with a pierced, teardrop-shaped backplate, hand-cut with geometric and foliate motifs. The folded steel clip at the reverse secures it to the belt at the waist.
Suspended from multiple graduated chains are a carefully assembled group of household tools, including:
A large flat-faced steel food stamp (2.5 cm diameter), most likely a butter or dairy stamp.
A spherical retractable tape measure, retaining its original red silk measure (missing first 2 inches).
An acorn-shaped steel pin cushion.
Antique steel sewing scissors.
A steel household key.
A small cranberry red glass vial, likely for scent, salts, or medicine.
Historical Context
The chatelaine takes its name from the châtelaine, or mistress of a household, and functioned as both a symbol of authority and a practical tool set. By the mid-19th century, steel chatelaines had become especially popular for working domestic wear, valued for their durability and understated elegance.
The presence of a butter or food stamp is particularly revealing - such tools suggest hands-on household management and are far less common on later, more decorative Victorian chatelaines. The inclusion of a tape measure, pin cushion, and key further underscores the utilitarian nature of this piece, situating it firmly within the rhythms of everyday domestic life rather than fashion alone.
Condition: Very good antique condition, with honest surface wear and patina throughout, consistent with age and long use. Chains and attachments intact. The set reflects natural evolution typical of working chatelaines, where implements were added or replaced as needed. Please examine the pictures as they form part of the description.
Note
Complete mid-19th century steel chatelaines with practical household implements, particularly those retaining a food stamp, tape measure, and pin cushion, are increasingly scarce. The red glass vial is a particularly unusual and attractive feature.
France or England, circa 1845-1865.
A substantial mid-19th century steel chatelaine (belt not included).
The chatelaine is constructed in steel and fitted with a pierced, teardrop-shaped backplate, hand-cut with geometric and foliate motifs. The folded steel clip at the reverse secures it to the belt at the waist.
Suspended from multiple graduated chains are a carefully assembled group of household tools, including:
A large flat-faced steel food stamp (2.5 cm diameter), most likely a butter or dairy stamp.
A spherical retractable tape measure, retaining its original red silk measure (missing first 2 inches).
An acorn-shaped steel pin cushion.
Antique steel sewing scissors.
A steel household key.
A small cranberry red glass vial, likely for scent, salts, or medicine.
Historical Context
The chatelaine takes its name from the châtelaine, or mistress of a household, and functioned as both a symbol of authority and a practical tool set. By the mid-19th century, steel chatelaines had become especially popular for working domestic wear, valued for their durability and understated elegance.
The presence of a butter or food stamp is particularly revealing - such tools suggest hands-on household management and are far less common on later, more decorative Victorian chatelaines. The inclusion of a tape measure, pin cushion, and key further underscores the utilitarian nature of this piece, situating it firmly within the rhythms of everyday domestic life rather than fashion alone.
Condition: Very good antique condition, with honest surface wear and patina throughout, consistent with age and long use. Chains and attachments intact. The set reflects natural evolution typical of working chatelaines, where implements were added or replaced as needed. Please examine the pictures as they form part of the description.
Note
Complete mid-19th century steel chatelaines with practical household implements, particularly those retaining a food stamp, tape measure, and pin cushion, are increasingly scarce. The red glass vial is a particularly unusual and attractive feature.
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