Vase with cover (Vase en ivoire) (one of a pair) ca. 1786 French, Paris Ivory-turning had been a fashionable pastime at European courts during the sixteenth and early seventeenth centuries, and it was revived in France and elsewhere during the second half of the eighteenth century. Louis XV worked the lathe himself, and his daughters received instruction in this art form. His grandson the dauphin, the future Louis XVI, also took lessons, as did his brothers. A group of ivory vases was recorded at the Chteau de Versailles on the eve of the Revolution, possibly created by members of the royal family. It is more likely, however, that Michel Voisin (1729-1786), turning master to Louis XVI, or his son François was responsible for these precious, lacelike objects. A series of engraved designs by the younger Voisin, entitled Nouveau Cahier de vases, composés par Voisin Fils, includes a vase that is similar to but more elaborate than the Museums pair. The chief difference is that the body an