This extraordinary Palais Royal rectangular seal set, dating to the mid-nineteenth century, contains seventeen double-sided disks, for a total of thirty-four engraved designs.

Collected by Kathryn Hastings years before the public emergence of her work, this piece became part of the artistic foundation from which much of her visual world would later grow, and the development of technique elevating wax seals from craft to fine art. It was the first large-format étui seal in her collection, used during the earliest formation of her artistic practice and philosophy surrounding seals, symbolism, and correspondence.

Within the disks are motifs that would later become deeply associated with Kathryn’s work, including the Cherub on Spaniel and the Peace Dove. These designs existed here first, not yet as finished symbols within a larger body of work, but as part of the evolving visual language from which that body would emerge.

Bearing the marks and character of age, handling, and use, this piece is sold as-is, with no returns accepted. Please review all photographs carefully before acquiring.

Shipped fully insured with signature required upon delivery.