A gold and enamel snuff box, probably Berlin, circa 1780

oval, the lid painted with an enamel plaque, probably Geneva, Pâris and his wife Oenone within pearls frame, the translucent blue enamel spandrels on a dotted and reeded engine-turned ground, the borders with blue enamel musical trophies alterning with pearls, the sides and base similarly decorated, French prestige marks including date letters J and T and charge of JJ Prevost

all blue enamel panels restored. some blue enamel trophies also restored. some pearls probably replaced. good impression and nice enamel plaque even though not the original one.
"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."

This enamel scene is after a painting by Angelica Kauffman, circa 1780, taken from the Heroides, written by Ovid. Oenone, the first wife of Pâris whom he abandonned for Helene, writes a letter to the hero in which she reminisces her life together and recalls his carving her name into the trunk of a tree, as depicted here, promising that he would always be with her - and if he broke his promise, the waters of the river Xanthius would flow backwards (Heroides 5).