A gold and hardstone snuff box, probably English, circa 1725/30

A gold and hardstone snuff box, probably English

circa 1725/30

of shaped oval form, the light brown agate panel in the centre of the lid framed by a gold border chased with a dog barking at two nesting swans, alternating with leafy floral parts and geometric ornaments on a sablé ground, a startled crane in each corner on the top, raised thumbpiece, the waisted sides with a group of dogs rushing towards a rabbit and a bird below trees and in front of a village, separated by ornamental foliage, slightly domed light beige agate base, apparently unmarked

7cm., 2 3/4 in. wide