French Chinoiserie Hardstone Snuff Box

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