Preliminary identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a remarkably clever, dual-purpose luxury desk accessory designed by the legendary house of Hermès. It functions as a heavy, silver-plated pen tray on one side, and when flipped over, reveals a calibrated ruler with a beautifully stitched burgundy leather pull tab. It represents the pinnacle of mid-century executive office design, where utilitarian tools were elevated into tactile works of art.
Story
Hermès began as a Parisian harness workshop in 1837, serving European noblemen. By the mid-20th century, they translated this equestrian leather expertise into ultra-luxury desk accessories for the world's elite business class.
Maker / Origin
Founded by Thierry Hermès, the house of Hermès is world-renowned for its uncompromising commitment to hand-craftsmanship. While famous for their Birkin bags and silk scarves, their 20th-century 'Art de la Table' and office collections are highly coveted by design purists. Every leather element, including the small pull tab on this ruler, features their signature saddle-stitching technique.
Condition & Value
The silver plating shows light surface scratching and minor tarnishing consistent with age and use. The burgundy leather tab is intact with tight stitching, showing only minor wear. Regular polishing and leather conditioning will preserve its value; avoid over-polishing the engraved 'Hermès Paris' mark.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.