Early sewing needles were precious items and easily lost. Needlecases were a necessity for storing these fragile objects, and are found in cultures around the world. Tubular bronze needlecases are common finds from
Viking-age sites in Europe. Cane needlecases were found in a grave from
Cerro Azul, Peru, dated to 1000–1470 AD. Bone, leather and metal needlecases have been found from
Medieval London, Bone and ivory needlecases and pin poppets were also popular in 18th century America. Heavily decorated silver and brass needlecases are typical of the
Victorian period. Between 1869 and 1887,
W. Avery & Son, an English needle manufactory, produced a series of figural brass needlecases, which are now highly collectible. Avery's dominance of this market was such that all similar brass Victorian needlecases are called "Averys". One style of needlecase was inspired by a French breech-loading machine gun, the
mitrailleuse. It could discharge bullets from its multiple barrels all at once or rapidly one after another. The needlecase style bearing this name was a cylinder divided in compartments, each of which contained numerous needles of the same size. A revolving cap would allow the selected size compartment to open and discharge needles. Sears, Roebuck and Co. and other firms sold these needlecases inexpensively. ==Gallery==