English painted lead and pewter lidded tobacco box, 18th–19th century
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
18th - 19th Century
This 18th–19th century English tobacco box is constructed from a combination of lead and pewter. The lidded container features a distinct domed lid topped with a bust finial, serving as a decorative and functional handle.
The box includes an internal secondary lid, a common feature for maintaining the freshness of tobacco stored within. The exterior exhibits traces of decorative painting, including a partial monogram, though significant wear to the surface finish is evident. The overall dimensions of the box are approximately 9.5 inches in length, 9.25 inches in width, and 5 inches in height (24.1 x 23.5 x 12.7 cm). The piece is apparently unmarked.
The construction and materials reflect traditional British metalworking techniques used for personal tobacco storage accessories during this historical period, with the lead and pewter composition providing both durability and a specific aesthetic character typical of such utilitarian decorative objects from the era.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Physical characteristics
- Materials
- lead, pewter
- Dimensions
- 9 1/2 x 9 1/4 x 5 in. (24.1 x 23.5 x 12.7 cm.)
Design
- Lid
- domed with bust finial and inner lid
- Ornamentation
- partial painted monogram
Identification
- Source note
- Described from a single auction-house listing published on Invaluable (reproduced with Invaluable's permission). Details apply to that one example; other examples of the type may differ, and the listing is supplementary evidence, not authentication.
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.