Lavish Antique Pique Tortoiseshell "Mercury And Argus" Themed Snuff Box, 18th Century

Lavish antique medium to light brown tortoiseshell and gold pique point and pose snuffbox, mid 18th century. This ornate, rectangular profile hinged box features a molded, rococo style cartouche, and is decorated with a center chased allegorical "Mercury and Argus" theme, surrounded by a border ornamented with torches, birds and grotesque forms. The reverse is decorated with a molded, rococo style cartouche, bird motif center and pique point and post, floral and foliate decorations.

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: 3" L x 2 1/8" 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

Crack at 3:00 under the left figure of Mercury; pin backing out of left hinge, some lifting on the right bird scene on bottom edge. Minor expected scratching and nicking and wear is commensurate with age. Good overall estate condition.

This item is available for local pick up only, transport is not available.