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Montesquieu Portrait Tortoiseshell Snuff Box
Montesquieu Portrait Tortoiseshell Snuff Box
Montesquieu Portrait Tortoiseshell Snuff Box
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Montesquieu Portrait Tortoiseshell Snuff Box

  • A miniature portrait of French philosopher Charles Montesquieu adorns this tortoiseshell snuff box
  • Dramatic cobalt enameling, perhaps the finest form of enamel decoration, encircles the portrait
  • A snuff box of such superb quality would have been a symbol of wealth and prestige
  • Get complete item description here
$14,500
Item No. 30-2831

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Description
An exquisite miniature of French philosopher Charles Montesquieu graces the lid of this tortoiseshell-lined snuff box. The handsome portrait was fashioned by the renowned Jacques-Joseph de Gault of France after a popular bust by the French neoclassical sculptor Jean-Antoine Houdon. Largely considered one of the finest miniaturists of his time, works by de Gault can be found in important public and private collections around the world, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

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An exquisite miniature of French philosopher Charles Montesquieu graces the lid of this tortoiseshell-lined snuff box. The handsome portrait was fashioned by the renowned Jacques-Joseph de Gault of France after a popular bust by the French neoclassical sculptor Jean-Antoine Houdon. Largely considered one of the finest miniaturists of his time, works by de Gault can be found in important public and private collections around the world, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Adding to its elegance, the philosopher's portrait is set in a skillfully chased gold and glass frame and a dramatic band of cobalt enameling, over which the Latin 'VITAM IMPENDERE VERO' is inscribed. Beautifully crafted of the finest materials, this rare box would be the perfect acquisition for collectors of both decorative boxes and miniatures.

The box is signed on the miniature “J. J. De Gault 1781 after Houdon 1778”

Circa 1781

2 3/4” diameter x 7/8” deep
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Montesquieu Portrait Tortoiseshell Snuff Box
Period: 18th Century
Origin: France
Type: Snuff/Tobacco Boxes
Style: Louis XV
Diameter: 2.75 in. 
Depth: 2.75 in. (6.99 cm)
Width: 2.75 in. (6.99 cm)
Height: 0.88 in. (2.22 cm)
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

The M.S. Rau Difference

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.

-Bill Rau, Third-Generation Owner

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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.

Antiques

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.