An unusual pearl, gold and enamel snuff box celebrating King Carlos IV of Spain, Guidon, Gide & Blondet, Geneva, 1802

rectangular with cut corners, the lid painted with Carlos IV and his consort Maria Luisa of Parma, drawn through the streets of Barcelona in a pearl-set chased gold chariot, framed within gold and enamel cagework further set with pearls, flanked by the figures of War and Peace, inscribed: Paz, below the sun in its glory, the sides and base enamelled in deep blue within coloured taille d'épargne borders

An interesting and unusual box. The gold cushion with crowns and orb perched on the back of the carriage on the lid has been re-attached with solder but only visible with a loupe. Some scratching to blue enamel on base; front enamel panel restored. Otherwise very good condition.
"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."

On 11 September 1802, Carlos IV and Maria Luisa were welcomed to Barcelona by enthusiastic crowds. A magnificent gilded chariot with crimson velvet and cloth of gold cushions, designed by Pedro Pablo Montaña, director of the design school of the Barcelona Board of Trade, and built by Manuel Piera, skilled carpenter of the calle del Carmen, was provided for their majesties and drawn not by horses but by guildsmen in 'Roman' dress. The design of the coach was symbolic: at the front was a dog with a key in its mouth symbolising Barcelona's loyalty; above this and above the arms of the city was a lion with two globes between its paws for the King of Spain, ruler of the old and new worlds. According to the London Morning Post of 22 November 1802, 'The King's suite comprised about 4000 ... The triumphal car, in which the Royal Pair entered the town, was covered with sheets of gold, sustaining at [the] top a crown of diamonds of immense value.... The procession lasted upwards of two hours, and the enthusiasm of the people ... was excessive'. For further information, see Maria de los Angeles Pérez Samper, Barcelona, Corte, La visita de Carlos IV en 1802, Barcelona, 1973.