Duke and Duchess of Windsor Gold Snuff Box

This important Louis XV gold snuff box is from the prestigious collection of the Duke and Duchess of Windsor. The engine-turned gold box originally sold at Sotheby’s historic sale The Jewels of the Late Duchess of Windsor, which was held in Geneva in April of 1987. Few other snuff boxes can claim such a distinguished provenance.

The Duke and Duchess remain one of the most romantic and scandalous royal couples of the 20th century, and possessions belonging to them are among the most desirable collectibles. Edward VIII, the fair-haired Prince of Wales, spent most of his youth touring the British Empire in preparation for being crowned King of England. Shortly after accepting the crown in 1936, he abdicated the throne to marry his beloved, Wallis Simpson, a twice-divorced American woman living in London.

After their marriage in 1937, Edward took the liberty of creating a title for himself and his new wife – the Duke and Duchess of Windsor. The Windsors made their home in Paris at Bois du Bolougne, where they surrounded themselves with royal treasures. It is said that every surface of their home was covered with the finest silver, china and jeweled and gold boxes. The couple became the “King and Queen” of high society, running in social circles of movie stars, authors, playwrights and millionaires. They were and remain the epitome of glamour and sophistication.

The Duke died in 1972, and, following the Duchess’ death in 1987, their jewelry and accessories were sold at one of the most renowned auctions in recent history. Items sold for three times their expected price in Geneva, demonstrating an overwhelming nostalgia for the illustrious couple.

This important French snuff box from their historic collection is pictured on page 90 of The Jewels of the Duchess of Windsor, New York, 1987, by J. Clume and N. Rayner.

Bears the maker's mark of Dominique-François Poitreau, Paris, 1764/65

2 1/2" wide x 1 1/4" deep x 1 1/4" high