petite tabatière en or de deux tons par Melchior-René Barre, Paris, 1772

ovale, le couvercle et le dessous ciselés de motifs en leur centre sur un fond uni, bordée d'acanthes en or jaune citron, poinçon de maître, charge et décharge de J. Alaterre

oval, the lid and base with central chased trophy and basket of flowers, the sides with further  flowers between standing urns, on a polished ground with line and lemon gold rosettes and acanthus borders

Generally time-worn. There is a slight hinge problem which prevents the box from closing completely.
"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."

Melchior-René Barre was apprenticed to Jean Frémin, also a maker of gold boxes, on 9 January 1751. He became master on 11 June 1768, sponsored by Jean-Louis Bouillerot. He was then living in the place Dauphine, where he is recorded in 1772 in the Almanach d'Indication for le bijou d'or. By 1774 he had moved to the quai des Orfèvres, advertising the loss of 'une tabatière marbrée avec un portrait de femme'. Barre is then recorded as living and working at various addresses until 1791.