Set of three retractable mechanical pencils; mid-19th century.

Set of three retractable mechanical pencils; mid-19th century.
14-karat gold and semi-precious stones.
Comes with a methacrylate display case.
Some pieces show slight wear.
Measurements: 12 cm (longest).
The bodies feature fluted decoration and guilloché motifs, ornamental techniques characteristic of goldsmithing and high-end writing instruments of the period. The two larger pieces are topped at their upper end with ornamental stones, while the smaller piece incorporates a suspension ring and a violet-hued gem, suggesting it may have been used as a pendant or chatelaine element in addition to its function as a writing instrument.
These types of small objects, designed to be carried along with other personal effects, were part of the world of luxury accessories characteristic of nineteenth-century society and bear witness to the refinement applied even to everyday objects.