A gold and enamel snuff box, J.F. Bautte & Cie., Geneva, 1826-1855

of rounded rectangular form, finely decorated in Persian taste with colourful flowers in painted and basse-taille enamels within scrolling foliage on a polished gold ground, the rim inscribed in gothic script: J. F Bautte & Cie a Geneve

Enamel loss to flower at front right corner and restoration to flower at front left corner of lid; further minute enamel losses but otherwise excellent crisp 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."

For a gold and enamel snuff box with the same signature, decorated with similar flowers in translucent and painted enamels, but in relief on a matted ground, see ed. Haydn Williams, Enamels of the World - The Khalili Collections, London, 2009, no. 223. The firm of J.F. Bautte & Cie., was in business between 1826 and 1855. Even though Jean-François Bautte died in 1837, the firm was continued under his name by his son and son-in-law. For further information about Bautte and his partners, see op. cit., pp. 312 and 314.