A gold-mounted hardstone snuff box, Rome, circa 1815, made for the Russian market

rectangular with canted corners, carved of lavastone, the lid with a cameo profile bust of Emperor Alexander I (r. 1801-1825), polished gold mounts, struck with marks for St Petersburg, unrecorded mark PS a flourish between, 72 standard, later French import marks

Excellent condition. The base with a very small chip, approximately 3x3x2mm.
"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 similar example in the Peterhof museum, please see Gosudarstvenniy Musei-Zapovednik Petergoff, St Petersburg, 2002, cat. no. 302, p. 156.