This ornate needle case is carved of ivory with unusually nice detail and it has a lovely old patina and ivory grain pattern. It's decorated with people going about their daily jobs with an elaborate background of trees and houses. It was carved in China in the early 19th century for an English workbox.

The condition is excellent with no chips, cracks or other damage. It screws together securely and measures 3 1/8" long. One like this is shown on p. 84 of Nerylla Taunton's book "Antique Needlework Tools and Embroideries".