KNOW-HOW
Mother-of-pearl and tablet making
Shells, bones, and wood were among the first materials used by humans to make objects and jewelry. Necklaces made from shells have been found on Middle Paleolithic archaeological sites. These objects undoubtedly served as adornments, currency, and offerings.
Over time, shell work, and mother-of-pearl in particular, has been perfected. Their beauty and the rarity of some of them have made them a sought-after luxury material, just like metals or precious stones.
We call tabletiers the craftsmen who work with luxurious natural materials. The golden age of tablet making was between the 18th century and the beginning of the 20th century. These materials were then mainly used for the manufacture of buttons, dominoes, fan mounts, etc. The arrival of plastic and synthetic materials brought this craft to a sudden halt, leading to the closure of hundreds of tablet-making workshops and the disappearance of techniques and know-how specific to this profession. Today in France, a few artisans passionately perpetuate the tradition thanks to their unique handmade pieces.
My creations are all handcrafted in my workshop located in the heart of France. I look forward to welcoming you there!