Lot 87
  • 87

A rare Mexican Imperial Presentation gold snuff box

Estimate
18,000 - 20,000 GBP
Log in to view results
bidding is closed

Description

  • length 9cm, 3 1/2 in
struck: 18, otherwise unmarked, circa 1865



rectangular with cut corners, the lid applied in high relief with a portrait in profile to dexter of Emperor Maximilian of Mexico within a laurel garland and the chain of the Order of the Mexican Eagle, instituted by Maximilian in 1865, below the Imperial crown, ropework and acanthus borders, the sides applied with beading a nd scrolled flourishes

Provenance

L.G. Cockhead Esq., Carlisle Grange, Eastbourne, sale Christie's, 16 March 1948, lot 90;
anonymous vendor, Sotheby's Geneva, 14 November 1987, lot 109

Condition

Minor losses to applied gold mounts: tip of fleur-de-lys-type ornament at side, and rosette at back side of lid above the hinge. Small bump to gold at right side near edge. The hinge has been repaired and the gold casing is lacking at one segment. Minor pricks to base. Small hemispherical declivity on interior base at left hand near wall, not visible on exterior. The box is an impressive weight.
"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

Maximilian, Archduke of Austria, younger brother of Emperor Franz Joseph I, was born in Vienna on 6 July 1832. He married Princess Charlotte of Belgium in 1857. In 1864 he was manoeuvred by Napoleon III into accepting the Imperial throne of Mexico. On 19 June 1867, he was executed at Quaretaro. According to family tradition, the box was presented to the Emperor by a group of admirers who had raised money among themselves for the expensive gift.