Probably South Netherlandish, circa 1730

Overall the condition of the box is very good, with some wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age. The carver worked closely to the outside of the shell, hence the green areas at the high points. There are a few minor nicks and scratches to the gold mount.
"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."

The cover represents David tending his sheep before his fight with Goliath (First book of Samuel, Chapter 17, verses 34-37), while the base represents David seeing Bathsheba for the first time bathing (Second book of Samuel, Chapter 11, verses 2-4). It is very unusual for such snuff boxes to be mounted in gold as they are usually with silver mounts. The carving of the cover is also very unusual to be in such high relief; the carving on the base is in lower relief to help the box to stand balanced. Conversely, the carving of the lid acts as a support so that the excellent carving on the base can be properly viewed and admired. Another mother-of-pearl example similarly carved with biblical scenes - the destruction of Pharaoh's Army in the Red Sea - and considered to be Netherlandish, is in the Walters Art Museum, Baltimore (illustrated by A. Kenneth Snowman, Eighteenth Century gold boxes of Europe, pl. 876, p. 399.)