A FOUR COLOURS GOLD SNUFF BOX, JEAN FORMEY, PARIS, 1757 |

oval, the lid, sides and base chased with elegant hunting and martial trophies on a reeded ground, within two-colour gold borders of alternating chased flowerheads, sprigged ribbons and leaves, maker's mark, charge and discharge marks of Eloi Brichard, Paris date letter for 1757

overall good condition, some wear and very slight surface scratches commensurate with age
"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."

Following the completion of his apprenticeship, the celebrated gold box maker Jean Formey worked as compagnon at the Gobelins between 1741 and 1754. He became master in Paris on 17 July 1754, sponsored by Antoine Clérin, from the Pont au Change where he remained for thirty years at the sign of the ville de Pontoise. His trade card advertises that: 'Formey Md Orfévre Joyallier Bijoutier, Fabrique, Vend, Achete, & Troque toutes sortes de Joyalleries Bijouteries'. He was evidently both successful and respected, holding office in the Goldsmiths' Corporation and becoming garde in 1759 and rising to premier grand-garde in 1778. According to Henri Nocq (Le poinçon de Paris, 1926-31, vol. II, p. 183), Formey worked almost exclusively in gold and regularly presented important quantities of gold for hallmarking. His surviving work which can be found in museums and private collections bears out this impression of a substantial career creating boxes of excellent quality and in the forefront of fashion. He is recorded in Fontainebleau, presumably in retirement, from 1785 until 1791 but there appears to be no record of his death.