Snuff box - Copper, Silverplated

Particular pair of antique, octagonal pocket snuff boxes from the late eighteenth to early nineteenth century (1780–1820), most likely of Western European origin and manufactured in the Netherlands, Germany or England region. In this flourishing period of tobacco culture, such compact boxes formed an indispensable and stylish accessory for men’s fashion. Both boxes are artisan-made from a red copper base that originally carried a silver top layer. After decades of intensive historical use, this silvering on the outside has largely worn away, revealing the underlying copper in a characteristic manner. This gives the objects a warm antique patina highly cherished by collectors. The interiors, however, have remained protected through the centuries and still show the original, bright silver finish.

The two pieces subtly differ from each other in craftsmanship, dimensions, and weight. The first box weighs 85 grams and measures 3.8 by 8.1 by 6.4 centimeters, with the lid and sides adorned with extremely fine and detailed hand-engraved floral laurel and scroll motifs, combined with clean geometric lines at the corners. The second box weighs 95 grams and measures 3.6 by 7.7 by 5.8 centimeters. The lid of this specimen is executed in relief via the repoussé technique, whereby the flower pattern is pressed from within the mold, which is beautifully visible on the inside of the lid in negative. Both pieces also feature an original functional small drilled hole on the back just below the hinge, which at the time served to attach a safety pin or a cord to the clothing. Both boxes are in an authentic, lived-in condition with natural aging signs and oxidation that emphasize the historical integrity of the items. This rare set forms a wonderful ensemble for collectors of historical smalls and tobacciana.

Dimensions: 3.8 x 8.1 x 6.4 cm and 3.6 x 7.7 x 5.8 cm
Weight: 85 g and 95 g