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Yes, it is true that the Victorians were a much more genteel
society than today. But lest we women become too sentimental over those
bygone years, all it takes is a good read through Henry James' The
Portrait of a Lady to set your teeth on edge and make you count your
blessings to be alive today and not 100 years ago. The calling card was
the predecessor to our modern business card, and was presented to the
host when paying a visit to someone at home. This ornately detailed card
case measures just under 4" high, and 2 3/4" wide and about 1/4" in
depth. The front is engraved with the initials 'WE' in the center.
Hinged at the left, it is hallmarked with the makers mark 'C & N', an
anchor, the letter Z, and the lion passant. Hallmarks indicate the
case is sterling, made in Birmingham, England, by Crissford & Norris,
who registered that name in 1898. The case is in excellent condition, aside from a slight
dent or two on the edge of the case, with patina present. $525
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