A large gold-mounted red lacquer snuff box, English or German, circa 1765

decorated with landscapes and birds in raised gold and silver lacquer on red lacquer ground, the mounts engraved with linked ovals, the thumbpiece with sprays of flowers within chased scrolls,

Presumably Henry, 7th Duke of Beaufort (1792-1853)

small loss to lacquer on top, repaired split inside flange of cover above hinge
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Lord Henry Somerset joined the 10th Hussars and was Aide-de-Camp to Wellington in Portugal and Spain 1812-14, a Lord of the Admiralty 1815-19, served as M.P. for Monmouth and for West Gloucestershire.  He succeeded as 7th Duke of Beaufort in 1835, was High Steward of Bristol from 1836 to his death, and was created a Knight of the Garter in 1842.  He was described as "An excellent landlord, and a great patron of the sports of the field... his inherent courtliness was enhanced by a fine port and commanding figure, and a countenance whose features were cast in a truly noble mould.  He was a consistent supporter of Conservative politics" (the Gentlemans' Magazine, quoted in the Complete Peerage).

Lord Alvanley is probably William Arden, 2nd Baron Alvanley (1789-1849), an officer in the Coldstream Guards, friend of Beau Brummel and of the Prince Regent, who was a notable figure of the Regency but who ruined himself with extravagant spending.