Reference:
smsn121
Description: A beautiful combination of incised gilded metal,
pressed tortoiseshell and fine piqué work in gold, on a snuff
box of rounded pleasing form. The butterfly motif is very delicately
executed and contrasts well with the robust swirly design of
the metal. The design on the shell is most unusual, its wavy patter
suggesting of air movement.
The bottom of the box is also covered in embossed shell, a sign of a
quality piece.
Origin: Possibly
French, although the style is of a pan-European nature, and could be
English or German. See Antique Boxes, Tea Caddies, and Society, 1700--1880
Antigone Clarke & Joseph O'Kelly, ISBN: 0764316885 pages 103-104.
Circa: 1740-50
Materials:
Tortoiseshell, gilded brass and gold.
Size: 2.2" across. 5.5cm.
Condition: wear of
gilding where it was handled. Some fine gold lines missing from
butterfly. |
