Louis XV French Gold Snuffbox by Germain Chayé

This luxurious Louis XV-period gold snuffbox was crafted by master French goldsmith Germain Chayé. Formed of 18K yellow gold, this exceptional box displays remarkable artistry, with intricate engine-turned guilloché and tracery covering the entire piece. Highly respected within the goldsmith's guild, Chayé registered his first mark and became a master in 1755 and created some of the most exquisite snuffboxes, etuís and the like for the next three decades. His resplendent objets d'art are among the most desired of the 18th century and can be found in the prestigious collections of Paris' Louvre Museum, The MET in New York, and Waddesdon Manor in Buckinghamshire, England, the estate of the French-turned-English branch of the prominent Rothschild family. 

The taking of snuff was a highly regarded social ritual among the European elite. Snuffbox manufacturers were regarded as artists, creating and designing these elegant little boxes using fine metals, gemstones, and other luxurious materials. Particularly in the 18th century, fine gold objects became wildly popular amongst high society. These exquisite snuffboxes, thereby, 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. Snuff boxes, also known as “tabatières”, have become some of the most desirable collectibles in recent years.

Bears the mark of Germain Chayé, Paris, circa 1755

2 5/8" wide x 2" deep x 1 1/4" high