Known in France as a plumier, this pen or pencil box has been repurposed from the spine of a 1700s book. Beneath the flip-top lid (comprised of the embossed leather book spine) is a box with two compartments. Writing implements are intended to be stored in the larger compartment, while the smaller section can hold a variety of items from erasers to paper clips.

The spine is from an 18th-century version of the book, Ordonnances des Rois de France, which was originally published around 1530. This is “Tom VI” of the set, which discusses legislation, ordinances, and money minted during the early reign of Francis I. A fascinating bit of history that has a new purpose as a pen or pencil box, this would make a wonderful accessory to an office, library, or study.

CONDITION: Good condition of an 18th-century book spine that has been repurposed into a plumier more recently. Minor wear to the interior, including a discolored area and rubs from the lid opening. Fleabites to leather.