Calling Card Case
Keys, phone, mask, wallet … calling card case? Tiny Tuesday will make sure you have all the essentials before walking out the door.
This case is made of tortoise shell inlaid with silver, with an interior lined in burgundy velvet. A silver nameplate is inscribed “M.M.C.” for Mary Malvina Corey (1821-1862), the Great Aunt of the donor. Cases were made of a variety of materials, such as shell, wood, or metals. This case dates to circa 1840 and is in remarkable condition for an accessory which was often used.
Calling cards gained popularity in the United States during the first quarter of the19th century and remained popular through the early 20th century. These cards would feature a person’s name; occasionally, the home address, and the available times the person would be “receiving” callers would be included as well. The intention of the card was to let the receiver know who had visited during the day, particularly if they were unavailable. As such, the recipient could return the visit, if so inclined.
As calling cards were an integral part of life, calling card cases were a necessity to keep them handy.