A GOLD AND ENAMEL PORTRAIT SNUFF BOX, PROBABLY GERMAN, SECOND HALF 19TH CENTURY | A gold and enamel portrait snuff box, probably German, second half 19th century

rectangular, in Historismus taste, the lid applied with an oval enamel miniature of Frederick Augustus, Elector of Saxony, by Josias Barbette, within gold and green enamel laurel wreath borders, the ground of red enamel over chequered engine-turning, the sides and base similarly decorated, French prestige marks, comprising maker's marks SB below a Maltese cross, second charge mark of Henri Clavel and date letter K, in lid and base 

Henry Nyeburg collection, sale 7 November 1975, Sotheby's Zurich, lot 62 

Overall very good condition. Small losses to enamel to the green leaves on the border of the lid.
"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."

Josias Barbette fled from Strasbourg to Copenhagen in 1685 and he was appointed court painter to King Christian V in 1691. A similar miniature was exhibited at the Brussels exhibition of 1912 (see the exhibition catalogue, plate LXII), no. 274).