It was the custom in the 19th century for ladies of leisure to call on each other during the daytime. Ladies had calling cards made which they carried in these special cases, and which they could leave on a stand meant for this purpose if the lady called upon was not accepting callers. This case, which dates to the 1840s, is covered in a mosaic of mother-of-pearl diamond shapes which have etched designs. The lid is hinged, it is lined with velvet and it measures 2 1/2 by 4 inches.