A gold and enamel snuff box, Hanau, circa 1785

oval, the lid applied with a contemporary enamel medallion painted en grisaille with the bust of Sophocles, the frame and borders of opaque light blue enamel with gold ornament, the ground, sides and base reeded, French prestige marks including maker's mark MS crowned, the rim with Hanau bird's head for 19ct gold

The Property of a Gentleman, Christie's Geneva, 14-15 November 1983, lot 525

Some denting to base rim resulting in minor losses to enamel on base border of sides. Light scratching to base and lid panels and small indentations to left side panel. A cool and elegant box.
"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 further information about the gold standard in Hanau, see Lorenz Seelig, Golddosen des 18 jahrhunderts, Munich, 2007.