''Look within and you may view a maid to whom I will be true'' - what this fine antique enamelled patch box lacks in reflecting our 21st-century views on gender equality it makes up for it in 18th-century charm. English enamelling from this period rarely survives in a perfect state of preservation. Some degree of wear is acceptable, especially when considering its age, fragility, and usage. These decorative and finely made boxes contained beauty marks or patches, sometimes to hide facial blemishes. These patches were often simply round, but as their popularity grew in the second half of the eighteenth century, hearts, moons or stars were not uncommon. Where the patch was placed could act as a visual code - a patch by the eye meant the person was passionate, whilst one by the lips was considered flirtatious. Overall this box is in remarkably good condition. with only some very minor discolouration to its delicate enamelled interior, and slight wear to the surface of what appears to be t...