Christian objects - Corozzo Nuts - 1850-1900 - Convict Labour Snuff Box

Carved corozo nut snuff box

Convict work

Second half of the 19th century

11 cm x 5 cm x 4 cm

Rare and beautiful small box made of corozo nut, entirely carved in high relief.

The lid depicts the Carrying of the Cross: Christ bearing the cross, surrounded by soldiers and figures. The whole is richly framed with foliage, flowers and vegetal motifs.

On the opposite side, a central relief motif (Sacred Heart or religious symbol) surrounded by foliage.

The box opens thanks to its original metal hinge. The interior reveals the natural grain/structure of the corozo nut.

These corozo boxes were regularly carved by convicts (Cayenne, New Caledonia, metropolitan prisons) and by sailors to pass the time and earn a little money. Religious subjects, and in particular scenes of the Passion, are very characteristic of this folk-art production.

Overall good used condition. Beautiful brown patina, the hinge functions.