Lot 6
  • 6

A Royal Commemoration gold and cameo snuff box

Estimate
1,800 - 2,200 GBP
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Description

  • width 9cm, 3 1/2 in
struck with sunray and crossed S marks, German, circa 1830, the rim numbered: 7355



rectangular, the lid inset with a glass paste cameo, by Clemens Johannes Welzel, signed: C. Welzel, of Frederick William III, King of Prussia, in profile to dexter, the interior with commemorative inscription, the ground, sides and base plaid engine-turned within reeding and formal neo-classical motifs on a sablé ground

Provenance

The inscription reads: König/ Friedrich/ Wilhelm III/ den 31t Januar/ 1831.

 

Condition

The inscription plaque at the interior of the lid is of a slightly different colour of gold; there is discolouration around its edges and a shallow dent to its centre. There is a small split to the gold at the right side of the lid near the hinge. Otherwise, the box is in good condituion.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Catalogue Note

Frederick William (1770-1840) succeeded his father Frederick William II in 1797 as King of Prussia. In 1793, he had married the beautiful Princess Luise, daughter of Karl, Grand Duke of Mecklenburg-Strelitz.

C.J. Welzel (also known as Wetzel) is recorded as a gem and heraldic engraver in Berlin, dying on 21 November 1847 at the age of 46 and leaving a widow and 4 minor children (Wolfgang Scheffler, Berliner Goldschmiede, Berlin, 1968, no. 2092).

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