'La tricoteuse flamande d'après F. Mieris' and 'The Village Politicians after Wilkie': Two lacquer snuff boxes, Stobwasser, Brunswick, circa 1820

circular, the first painted with the knitting lady seated beside a table, the second with a lively discussion, the first with lid and base numbered: 3006, the second with lid and base numbered: 8653, each lid titled, the first base with Mark VI, the second base with Mark VII

Ist box: Generally good condition. There are small areas of discreet restoration around the edges of lid and base; wear to edge of base. There is a discolouration to the lid near edge at 1 o'clock, which is visible in the catalogue photo. 2nd box: Excellent condition. Minor nicks and wear to edges of lid and base; the most prominent nick is to edge of lid at 5 o'clock which is visible in the catalogue photo.
"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."

Wilkie's painting was shown at the Royal Academy in 1806 and was the first of his works to be reproduced by the engraver Abraham Raimbach at the start of their collaboration in 1814.  They exhibited a print of their work at the Paris salon and received a gold medal, after which the image continued to grow in popularity.  The subject appears frequently on Stobwasser boxes; occasionally only part of the composition is reproduced, as on a cigar case illustrated in J. Glanz, Historisches und Frivoles auf Lackdosen, 1999, p. 49, and a circular box in the Phillips Collection, Sotheby's London, 4 July 1934, lot 175.