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French Chinoiserie Hardstone Snuff Box
French Chinoiserie Hardstone Snuff Box
French Chinoiserie Hardstone Snuff Box
French Chinoiserie Hardstone Snuff Box
French Chinoiserie Hardstone Snuff Box

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French Chinoiserie Hardstone Snuff Box

  • This fascinating French snuff box is crafted of beautifully hued brown hardstone
  • A stunning chinoiserie motif adorns the lid of the rare objet d'art
  • Yellow gold mounts provide the perfect contrast to the rich, deep hues of the stone
  • This small treasure is an exceptional example of the luxury arts of the era
  • Get complete item description here
$16,850
Item No. 30-6251

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Description
A marvelously carved chinoiserie motif adorns the lid of this incredible 19th-century French tabatière or snuff box. The charming scene is intricately crafted in the form of a boating figure who holds aloft an umbrella formed of yellow gold, while the box itself is crafted from attractive brown hardstone mounted with stunning yellow gold "waves." Enchanting and beautifully executed, the rare snuff box is an incredible example of the creative artistry of these delightful boxes,. . .
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A marvelously carved chinoiserie motif adorns the lid of this incredible 19th-century French tabatière or snuff box. The charming scene is intricately crafted in the form of a boating figure who holds aloft an umbrella formed of yellow gold, while the box itself is crafted from attractive brown hardstone mounted with stunning yellow gold "waves." Enchanting and beautifully executed, the rare snuff box is an incredible example of the creative artistry of these delightful boxes, as well as the highly popular chinoiserie style.

Inhaling snuff, or snuffing, as it is also called, was a popular social ritual among the European elite from the 16th through the 19th centuries. Over these 300 years, master artisans created and designed elegant snuff boxes using fine metals, rare and beautiful woods, tortoiseshell, mother-of-pearl, precious stones and other luxury materials. They were among a gentleman's most expensive and elegant personal effects, and soon became a much sought-after collector's items. This incredible treasure displays the luxury and artistry of the era.

French, circa 1850

2" high x 1 1/2" wide x 1 1/2" deep
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French Chinoiserie Hardstone Snuff Box
Period: 19th Century
Origin: France
Type: Snuff/Tobacco Boxes
Style: Chinoiserie
Depth: 1.5 in. (3.81 cm)
Width: 1.5 in. (3.81 cm)
Height: 2.0 in. (5.08 cm)

Buy With Confidence

For over a century, we've placed important art, rare jewels and exceptional objects with more than 14,000 collectors worldwide, and have been recognized by trusted publications including Robb Report, The New York Times, Wall Street Journal and more.

On Approval

On Approval

Examine select works in person before you commit

125% Guarantee

125% Guarantee

Full credit plus 5% annual appreciation for five years

Trusted Expertise

Trusted Expertise

Over two centuries of combined experience across our specialists

Learn More

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Bill Rau Third-Generation Owner

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