- 19
A gold and enamel snuffbox
Estimate
4,000 - 6,000 GBP
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Description
- width 9.1cm, 3 5/8 in
probably German, circa 1830, the rim struck with import marks, possibly Baltic, apparently for 185?
rectangular with cut corners, the divided lid painted with a languid maiden inscribing a message in the ground beneath her, the upper register with a fan-shaped panel of chased acanthus leaves flanked by palm trees swaying in a starry night sky, the sides engraved with foliate scrolls on a sablé ground within rust-coloured and white enamel borders, the base painted with fruit
rectangular with cut corners, the divided lid painted with a languid maiden inscribing a message in the ground beneath her, the upper register with a fan-shaped panel of chased acanthus leaves flanked by palm trees swaying in a starry night sky, the sides engraved with foliate scrolls on a sablé ground within rust-coloured and white enamel borders, the base painted with fruit
Condition
The enamel surfaces have been lacquered, presumably to disguise restoration. There are areas of discreet restoration to the enamel borders. The interior flange crimped along the edge. Scratches to the interior of the lid. An appealing box.
"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."
"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
A nearly identical example, with less dramatic floral decoration in the upper portion of the lid, sold, Sotheby's London, 5 June 1972, lot 138. For another version showing the lady accompanied by a lover and dog, see Sotheby's London, 29 November 2006, lot 45.