George III silver gilt snuff box with hunting scene
George III silver gilt snuff box with hunting scene
2759
Fine Georgian snuff box with cast scene on the lid of huntsmen and hounds chasing a fox through the woods. The sides of the box have cast and applied foliate cartouches incorporating crests and arms for Williams of Dorset. This exceptionally heavy and fine example has its original gilding and is in superb condition.
Christopher Columbus brought snuff (a form of tobacco) back to Europe from the Americas in the late 15th century. Taking snuff became a popular habit and was sought after by royalty and the well-to-do. Even ladies indulged. Storing and carrying snuff led to the creation of snuff boxes many of which were exquisitely made, highly decorative and little works of art. Larger snuff boxes like this one would have been kept at home and could hold several days' worth of snuff.
Dimensions:
1819
London
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 back to Europe from the Americas in the late 15th century. Taking snuff became a popular habit and was sought after by royalty and the well-to-do. Even ladies indulged. Storing and carrying snuff led to the creation of snuff boxes many of which were exquisitely made, highly decorative and little works of art. Larger snuff boxes like this one would have been kept at home and could hold several days' worth of snuff.){kind=link}