Needle and thimble case
Probably made in Europe; 1690–1730
Silver, iron
Gift of Henry Francis du Pont 1955.0136.079
This combination needle and thimble case opens at the bottom for needles and at the top to hold a thimble. The loop at the top made it possible to suspend it from a chain or cord or to connect to a chatelaine, or belt hook on a woman’s gown. Ornamented tools with specific functions like this one could be gendered items of value and status.