What is an étui?
By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026
Definition
An étui is a small, slender case, typically cylindrical or shaped like a slightly elongated oval, made to hang from a chatelaine and carry a lady's personal tools and necessities. Inside, a set of fitted implements might include a needle case, scissors, thimble, pencil or small knife, each nestled in its own compartment. Étuis were at their most fashionable in the 18th century and were made in enamel, gold, silver and tortoiseshell, often decorated with miniature paintings or ornamental scenes; fine examples are now sought after by collectors of decorative arts.
Frequently asked questions
- What did an étui hold?
- The contents varied but typically included practical personal tools: a needle case, small scissors, a bodkin, a thimble, a pencil and sometimes a perfume vial or vinaigrette. Each piece fitted into a specific slot inside the case, rather like a miniature fitted travel set.
- What is a chatelaine?
- A chatelaine was a decorative belt clip or hook worn at the waist from which a collection of useful items, including an étui, keys, a watch or a perfume bottle, were suspended on short chains. It was the 18th and 19th century equivalent of a handbag for carrying essentials.
- Are étuis collectable today?
- Yes, fine 18th-century étuis in enamel or precious metals are collectable antiques sought by jewellery and decorative arts collectors. Their combination of intricate craftsmanship, small scale and historical character makes them appealing objects beyond their original function.
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