Antique French Napoleon III Framed Mourning Souvenir, Eagle and Monogram, 3 May, 1846 spoon The coloration in the shell

The coloration in the shell is really quite spectacular - a rich combination of cognac and chocolate

The beautiful old champleve enamel work always reminds me of the stained glass in the old cathedrals of France

Paper stamps on the lid and bottom of the box

The box is also in great shape

metalsmith on this one is so elegant

Antique French Napoleon III Framed Mourning Souvenir, Eagle and Monogram, 3 May, 1846 spoon The coloration in the shellA mourning 'souvenir' dated 8, May, 1846, and I've looked and looked and can't quite figure out what it commemorates. Perhaps one of my French friends will instantly know, but in French history chronology, I find nothing on a National basis to pin it to. Perhaps it mourns a soldier. Perhaps the story is to be found on the backside, which has very old pen and ink writing which is nearly undecipherable. A crest of sorts. All of these are mysteries to be