George III silver oval snuff box by William Parker & Benjamin Simpson
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
1799
This George III silver snuff box, crafted in London in 1799, features an elegant oval form defined by its distinctive reeded sides. The construction includes a hinged cover that opens to reveal the box's interior, designed for the containment of snuff.
The exterior is notable for its refined silver work, exhibiting a polished surface that highlights the artisanal quality typical of the late 18th-century period. A central decorative element on the top of the lid consists of an engraved armorial crest, accompanied by the Latin motto 'Quo Pax & Gloria Duccunt', which translates to 'Where Peace and Glory Lead'. With a length of 94mm, the snuff box is a compact and functional accessory reflecting the refined social habits of the Georgian era.
The piece bears the craftsmanship of William Parker and Benjamin Simpson, representing a period of high-quality silversmithing in London. The object maintains its historical character while demonstrating the durability of silver as a medium for personal luxury items during this time.
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
- Shape
- oval
- Length
- 94mm
- Material
- silver
Technical characteristics
- Hinge
- hinged cover
Design
- Engraving
- armorial crest and motto 'Quo Pax & Gloria Duccunt'
- Decoration
- reeded sides
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
- William Parker & Benjamin Simpson
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.