A pair of Victorian papier-mâché mother-of-pearl inlaid letter racks – England, circa 1860 A decorative pair of Victorian papier-mâché letter racks, finely embellished with extensive mother-of-pearl inlay on a black lacquered ground. The shaped backs and fronts are bordered with intricate mosaic-style inlay, framing hand-painted floral bouquets enriched with gilt decoration. Beautiful examples of mid-19th century English papier-mâché craftsmanship, combining practicality with refined decorative appeal. The iridescent mother-of-pearl displays attractive colour variation, contrasting elegantly with the deep black lacquer. The racks retain their original shaped bases and present particularly well as a pair, making them both decorative and highly collectible. Good antique condition, consistent with age and use. Age-related craquelure to the lacquer and light surface wear throughout. One mother-of-pearl flower is missing on one letter rack (see close-up photograph); otherwise the mother-of-pearl inlay is substantially complete. Minor wear to the painted and gilt decoration. Structurally sound and stable.