objet de vertu

/ ɒbˈʒeɪ də vɜːˈtuː /

noun

1. an object of virtu See virtu

Word History and Origins

Origin of objet de vertu¹

French, coined by the British as a translation of object of virtu but literally meaning only ``object of virtue''

Example Sentences

Even as a true collector of antiques has quite a peculiar way of handling some rare snuff-box or Tanagra statuette and, though unacquainted with that particular branch of art, yet straightway classes it correctly as to its merits, so, to him, an idea of whatever kind is an objet de vertu, to be appraised with unfailing accuracy.

From Project Gutenberg

It certainly isn't necessary to know what or molu is, nor to have any other objet de vertu but your wife.

From Project Gutenberg