Vintage silver-tone metal letter opener or bookmark of French origin, featuring a decorative design characteristic of the period. The handle is topped with a highly realistic cicada, with a molded body and openwork wings.
The leaf, grooved at the top to serve as a bookmark, features a small embedded religious medal depicting the Virgin and Child with the inscription "Notre-Dame de la Garde – Priez pour nous" (Our Lady of the Guard – Pray for us). The reverse bears the engraving "N.-D. de la Garde," confirming the Marian iconography associated with the basilica in Marseille. This type of item is sold as a pilgrimage or travel souvenir, combining functionality with devotional value.
- Approximate dimensions: Length 10.2 cm and width 1.47 cm at the widest point.
- Total weight: 8.29 grams.
- Composition: Metal.
- Contrasts: No.
- Acid test: Performed.
- Other materials: No.
- Additional details: These items are not new; they show signs of use and may have scratches and damage consistent with their age. Please examine the photos; some of the silver plating has faded. We provide an accurate description. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us. Attention to detail!
These items are not new; they show signs of use and may have scratches and damage consistent with their age. Please examine the photos; some of the silver plating has worn away. We provide an accurate description. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us. Attention to detail!
- evident signs of use and wear associated with age.
- visible scratches on the surface.
- damages typical of its age.
- Some of the silver tone has been lost.
