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German Porcelain Snuff Box
German Porcelain Snuff Box
German Porcelain Snuff Box
German Porcelain Snuff Box
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German Porcelain Snuff Box

  • This unique German porcelain snuff box is composed with superb artistry
  • Crafted of the finest porcelain, it is hand-painted with a charming classical tableau
  • Gilt mounting perfectly complements the vibrant and playful scene
  • Get complete item description here
$12,500
Item No. 29-4279

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Description
This important German porcelain snuff box exhibits delightful artistry and craftsmanship. Hand-painted classical tableau celebrating the exalted disciplines of art, architecture, music and astronomy adorn every surface of the small container, while gilt mounting beautifully complements the vibrant colors and intricate details.

Manufacturers of snuff boxes, as makers of one of the most fashionable luxury items during the 16th and 17th centuries, were regarded as artists. Master artisans created and designed these elegant little. . .
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This important German porcelain snuff box exhibits delightful artistry and craftsmanship. Hand-painted classical tableau celebrating the exalted disciplines of art, architecture, music and astronomy adorn every surface of the small container, while gilt mounting beautifully complements the vibrant colors and intricate details.

Manufacturers of snuff boxes, as makers of one of the most fashionable luxury items during the 16th and 17th centuries, were regarded as artists. Master artisans created and designed these elegant little boxes using fine metals, numerous rare and beautiful woods, porcelain, ivory, tortoiseshell, mother-of-pearl, precious gems and other luxurious materials. They were among a gentleman's most expensive and elegant personal effects, and soon became collector's items. Wealthy and fashionable men would have a fair number of them and often offered them as gifts. The finer examples such as this are most desirable.

The taking of snuff was a highly regarded social ritual among the European elite. With notable exception, snuff and other forms of tobacco were condemned by such personages as King James I of England, who wrote a famous counterblast against the herb, and Czar Michael of Russia, who decreed in 1634 that snuff takers were to have their noses cut off. However, popularity of snuffing flourished, thanks to the curious habit of sneezing that rose among the privileged classes. Only the rich and idle, so it was believed, had the time to sneeze or could afford snuff. Sneezing became part of conversation. One sneezed as punctuation, to show disinterest, boredom or disapproval. As a result, anything "not to be sneezed at" was considered worthwhile.

Circa 1790

3 3/8” wide x 2 1/2” deep x 1 5/8” high
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German Porcelain Snuff Box
Period: 19th Century
Origin: Germany
Type: Boxes
Depth: 2.56 Inches
Width: 3.38 Inches
Height: 1.63 Inches
Buy with Confidence

At M.S. Rau, we are committed to building a long-term, rewarding relationship with each and every client. That’s why your purchase is backed by our 125% guarantee.

Learn More

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The M.S. Rau Difference

The M.S. Rau Difference

Our philosophy has always been to offer clients only the very finest antiques, works of art and jewelry, and to back every transaction with the highest level of customer service. Earning your trust and delivering only the very best pieces is our top priority.

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M.S. Rau is committed to offering fine art of the highest caliber and we seek paintings and sculpture by historically renowned artists, often with impressive provenance. The large majority of our works of art come from private. . .

M.S. Rau is committed to offering fine art of the highest caliber and we seek paintings and sculpture by historically renowned artists, often with impressive provenance. The large majority of our works of art come from private collections; many are fresh to the market. Founded on Bill Rau’s expertise in the field, our specialisms range from Old Master pictures to Modern Art masterpieces. We regularly exhibit Dutch, Flemish, and Italian Old Masters, Academic, Orientalist, Barbizon, Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, Maritime & Sporting, British Neoclassical and American Illustration.

Our experienced fine art consultants offer personalized and confidential fine art consultation services to all clients. Whether you are looking to begin collecting art, grow an existing collection, or redefine your collecting strategy, M.S. Rau can support you on this journey.

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For more than a century, M.S. Rau has offered clients a superb selection of the highest quality jewelry. From the rarest colored diamonds, to the most sublime gemstones, to the most exquisite designer jewelry, M.S. Rau houses. . .

For more than a century, M.S. Rau has offered clients a superb selection of the highest quality jewelry. From the rarest colored diamonds, to the most sublime gemstones, to the most exquisite designer jewelry, M.S. Rau houses an extraordinary collection of fine jewels to satisfy the most discerning collector. Stunning creations by Tiffany & Co., Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Harry Winston and Patek Philippe are offered alongside extreme rarities such as vivid yellow, pink and blue diamonds, coveted Burma and Kashmir sapphires and elusive Golconda diamonds prized for their fire and perfection. Iconic jewels from the Art Deco, Edwardian, Art Nouveau and Victorian periods round out the collection.

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Since 1912, M.S. Rau has been recognized as a leader in the antiques industry and today our collections of rare silver, furniture, clocks, porcelain, glass and objets d'art are second to none. Our commitment to curating the. . .

Since 1912, M.S. Rau has been recognized as a leader in the antiques industry and today our collections of rare silver, furniture, clocks, porcelain, glass and objets d'art are second to none. Our commitment to curating the world’s most extraordinary and beautiful treasures has remained steadfast and our acquisition philosophy is simple: seek out and acquire only the very finest works whose provenance, beauty and rarity set them apart from all others. Our clients can be certain that each and every piece in our gallery has been hand-selected and carefully vetted for authenticity, condition and provenance. And, because our network of contacts spans generations, we are often able to acquire pieces that may have otherwise never been available on the market.

Whether you are just starting your collection, adding to an existing collection or even decorating your home, our team’s knowledge and experience can assist you in your endeavor. We have services and procedures in place to make your acquisition process both enjoyable and efficient.