A three-colour gold and enamel snuff box

French prestige marks including maker´s mark G.B crowned incuse, date letter T and charge mark of Julien Alaterre, late 18th century, the rim with later French and other control marks



oval, the lid applied with an oval enamel plaque painted with the choice of  Hercules, the frame and borders chased with husks, the ground enamelled in translucent steel blue on a diaper and rosette ground



 

Generally good condition and attractive. There is an enemal loss to the back panel below the hinge, down to the metal and approx 8mm long. Some wear to chased borders; surface scratches at centre of base. Otherwise in good order.
"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."

Among the many allegorical adventures that befell Hercules, according to the Greek sophist Prodicus, was the choice between Virtue and Vice, represented by two female figures. Naturally the hero was able to resist the flashy blandishments of a masked beauty to follow the pure path of a more cerebral Virtue.