A PRESENTATION GOLD-MOUNTED HARDSTONE SNUFF BOX, DATED 1827, | A presentation gold-mounted hardstone snuff box, dated 1827,

the oblong dark-flecked greenish-white quartz body with plain gold mount, the interior engraved with an inscription, unmarked, 6.7cm., 2 5/8 in.; and a gilt-mounted lapis lazuli snuff box, rectangular, pseudo hallmarks, 8.5cm., 3 ¼ in., late 19th/early 20th century; an oval silver-mounted hardstone snuff box, the mottled green body with milled silver mounts, Dutch, mid 19th century, 9.5cm., 3 ¾ in.; a small oval carved rock crystal snuff box with three-colour gold mount, German, late 18th century, 5.4cm., 2 5/8in.; and a small oval hardstone box with gilt-metal mounts, probably Birmingham, late 19th century, 5cm., 2in. wide.    

the first with a few light hairline cracks and two small dents to the underside; the lid of the lapis lazuli box with a slight split to the sides when closed. The lid of the third box not closing tightly, one triangle-shaped dent below the rim on the underside (only visible when opened), a crack below the hinge and traces of restoration, silver mount on base probably partially refitted. The rock-crystal box with refitted hinges not allowing the lid to close entirely, the fifth in good condition
"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."

The inscription on the first box reads: ‘Brought from "les derniers Rochers’" of Mr. Blanc by Jas. Balma [sic] in De Saussurès [sic] ascent, given by him to Dr. Paccard and by the Guide Julien Devousassoud his son in Law, to J. Auldjo on their return from the summit of that Mountain, the 9^th Augt. 1827.’ The circumstances surrounding the history of this box are recounted by John Auldjo Esq. of Trinity College, Cambridge, in his book, Narrative of an Ascent to the Summit of Mont Blanc, on the Eighth and Ninth of August, 1827, the second edition of which was published in London in 1830.