George II Scottish silver snuff box by James Mitchell, Edinburgh, c. 1740
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
circa 1740
This George II era Scottish snuff box, crafted in Edinburgh circa 1740, is a fine example of mid-18th-century silversmithing. The container is constructed from silver and features an oval cylindrical section with a functional hinged lid.
The exterior surfaces are finished with detailed flat chased decoration, showcasing prominent rocaille C-scroll motifs interwoven with floral elements along the rim areas. The hinge mechanism is further embellished with a band of engraved rosette lozenges, demonstrating a high level of craftsmanship. The interior of the box is gilded, providing a contrast to the polished silver exterior. Measuring 7.4 cm (2.9 inches) in length and weighing 171 grams (5.5 ozt), the box is a substantial and ornate personal accessory.
The maker's mark is located on the interior of the base. This specific piece has been documented in historical studies of eighteenth-century Edinburgh goldsmiths, where the marks have been attributed to the silversmith James Mitchell.
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
- Length
- 7.4 cm
- Weight
- 171 grams
- Material
- silver, gold
Technical characteristics
- Marks
- Maker’s mark on base interior
Design
- Shape
- oval cylindrical
- Decoration
- flat chased rocaille C scrolls, foliage, engraved rosette lozenges
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.
- Maker named in listing
- James Mitchell
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.