c. 1850s. 3x4-5/8x7/8" thick beautifully designed case has high relief images on both sides. Front has image of mother and daughter with dog and cat sitting in their laps, reverse side has image with three children playing with toys including doll and horse on wheels. Case is designed to hold four 1/9th images. Has insert paper from maker Littlefield, Parsons & Co noting they are the only legal manufacturers of "Union Cases, With The Embracing Riveted Hinge". Has patent dates of October 14, 1856 and April 21, 1857. Inside has velvet liners, brass hinges, and clips. Case has two barely noticeable tiny chips at corner tips, not offensive. Still VF. Wonderful design.