French embossed sterling silver snuff box with figural scene
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
Late 18th-19th Century
This antique French snuff box is crafted from sterling silver and features a circular form with a hinged lid. The piece dates to the late 18th to 19th century and is notable for its intricate design.
The lid is adorned with a high-relief embossed scene depicting a gathering of figures in period dress within an interior setting, displaying significant depth and detail. The sides of the box are simple in contrast, emphasizing the artistry of the top. Designed for functional use, the box is sized for holding snuff or small keepsakes. The underside bears an unidentified hallmark along with the letter N. The object has a circular diameter of 2.375 inches and a height of 1 inch, with a total silver weight of 98 grams.
The construction includes a hinged mechanism, reflecting the traditional craftsmanship of European decorative metalwork during this period.
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
- Height
- 1"
- Weight
- 98g
- Diameter
- 2.375"
- Material
- sterling silver
Technical characteristics
- Marks
- unidentified hallmark and the letter N
Design
- Motif
- figural scene in period dress
- Shape
- circular
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.