Gorgeous antique blonde tortoiseshell and gold pique pose snuffbox, circa 1740. This ornate, rectangular profile hinged box features a rococo style edging, and is decorated with a center chased allegorical "Mercury and Argus" theme, surrounded by a decorative cartouche border inlaid with mother-of-pearl, and finished with a foliate frame and a final mother-of-pearl punctuated edge. The reverse is decorated with an ornate cartouche, pique point and mother-of pearl set, centered with a bust form. Believed to be of Neopolitan origin.
Marks: All of the tortoise snuffboxes are unmarked. "Metal snuff box rims were exempt from assaying, or marking, in England due to a regulation of 1739. In France, since 1679, goldsmiths were allowed not to stamp any small, delicate pieces of gold or silver that might be ruined by marks."
Provenance: The estate of George Warburg, Hamden, CT
Dimensions: 2 11/16" L x 2 1/16" W
Please note: Black Rock Galleries offers these items due to their historical significance. We hold a deep respect of all endangered species and Fish and Wildlife regulations, strictly adhering to Cites rules. The tortoiseshell items in this auction are over 150 years old and, as such, cannot be transported to our out-of-state locations. Shipping is unavailable, and these items must be picked up in person at our Greenwich location only.
These exquisite antique boxes come from the estate of George Warburg, a lifelong collector and patron of the arts. Proceeds will go to the Apple Pickers Foundation, established by George in 2007 from the sale of several paintings, including Natalia Gonchorova’s “Picking Apples”. The foundation’s primary focus is on supporting local initiatives in education, healthcare, and the arts.
Additional hi-res photos are available at www.blackrockgalleries.com
Condition
Minor expected scratching and nicking and wear is commensurate with age. Some lifting of pique at 11, 1, 5 and 8:00 respectively; one mother-of-pearl point lost. Old repair at left hinge, and some chips. In otherwise good overall estate condition.
This item is available for local pick up only, transport is not available.
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