A jewelled gold and enamel Italian Royal presentation snuff box, Turin, circa 1835

of shaped rectangular form, decorated with ornate gilt scrolling foliage on a blue translucent enamel gound, the lid applied with cipher MC below a royal crown, the base with an acollé coat of arms below a royal crown, later 2nd title for the kingdom of Italy

According to family tradition, the snuff box was given by Maria Cristina to an ancestor of the present owner.

overall excellent condition but enamel on sides has minor scrapes and flaws, bubbling and flooding
"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."

Even though it is struck with Italian standard, the quality of the enamelling is very much in vein with the production of the celebrated Geneva gold box makers Bautte & Moynier. That is not surprising, especially as this box was made for presentation by a member of the Royal family of Savoy, whose royal residence was Turin. The cipher is that of Queen Maria Cristina of Savoy (1779-1849). She was the daughter of King Ferdinand I of the Two Sicilies and married Prince Charles Felix of Savoy in 1807. He inherited the throne of Sardinia on the death of his brother in 1821 and died in 1831.