A visiting card- also known as a calling card- is a small card used for social purposes. This was an important accessory for the upper classes. These cards were carried in silver card cases.
During the Georgian, Regency, and Victorian eras, calling cards were a necessary accessory for a gentleman or lady who called upon friends or acquaintances, or who wished to announce their presence in town. In fact, one wasn’t received unless one conveyed one’s card first. Gentlemen could place their addresses on their cards, but ladies could not.
Visiting card cases normally of rectangular form. Some had ‘sleeve’ lids which pull off, whereas others had small lids with tiny hinges.
The cards would normally be left with the butler and presented to their employer on a silver salver, please see our large collection at Salvers & Trays.
