This silver purse with a chain handle was used to carry calling cards.

Images(5)

Inscribed on the reverse is the inscription “TO/EBB/1887”.

A view of the open case with a calling card resting inside.

Stamped "40" on the inset metal at the top of the case.

Card Case

Maker Gorham Manufacturing Co. (American, Founded 1831 - 1967)

Datec. 1852 - 1865

MediumSilver

Dimensions4 1/16 × 3 1/8 × 1/4 inches (10.3 × 7.9 × 0.6 cm)

MarkingsStamped on the inset metal top of the case: lion passant, anchor, G.; Stamped on the inset metal top of the case: 40

Credit LineGift of Ella B. Beckwith.

Object number1965.32.234

On View

Not on view

CopyrightThe images and text contained on this page are owned by Telfair Museums or used by the Museum with permission from the owners. Unauthorized reproduction, transmission or display of these materials is prohibited with the exception of items deemed “fair use” as defined by U.S. and international copyright laws.Label TextThis silver purse with a chain handle was used to carry calling cards. The inscription "Ella B. Beckwith/ Dec. 25th 1867" is Ella Brockenbrough Beckwith (1837 - 1887). On the reverse, the inscription “TO/EBB/1887” is to her daughter Elizabeth B. Beckwith (1862-1945). In the latter half of the 19th century, a complex set of rules of etiquette governed the use of calling cards. A person would not expect to see a second person in their home (unless invited or introduced) without having first left his card at the second's home and receiving a card at his own home in response. This would serve as a signal that a personal visit and meeting at home would be welcome. On the other hand, if no card was forthcoming, or if a card was sent in an envelope, a personal visit was thereby discouraged. The whole procedure depended upon there being servants to open the door and receive the cards and it was, therefore, confined to the social classes which employed servants. If a card was left with a turned corner, it indicated that the card had been left in person rather than by a servant.

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