Description and Details
We are delighted to offer this impressive Georgian solid silver gilt snuff box made in Birmingham in 1829 - Maker's mark of John Bettridge.Upon first glance, even to the layman, this snuff box exuberates opulence and magnificence with its fully gilt exterior (layer of gold on top of solid silver) and indeed, this box presents delightful and impressive decorations. The top lid features a very ornate and finely decorated figurative battle scene of cavalry fighting: "The Duke of Wellington ordering the last Grand Charge which completed the defeat of the French Army, Battle of Waterloo 1815". The scene was originally an engraving by Samuel Mitan after Captain George Jones, one of a series published by Thomas Kelly, 26th Apr 1817 (the scene may be viewed at the online collection of the National Army Museum, London). The background and landscape are finely engraved and contrasted with the high-relief of the horses. The borders on the top and bottom are intricately chased with floral motifs. A point of decadence and extravagant decoration might be best expressed by the thumbpiece which, not only functions as an aid to open the box, but as an additional part to display the chaser's skill.
In the modern day, such boxes could be used to store small items, mints and pills in addition to the traditional snuff (tobacco) that would have been stored within.
A full set of English hallmarks are present on the interior lid/base of the box. *Please note: all images with other items are for display purposes only, this listing is for the single snuff box only.
Size
- Size (cm) L:9cm W:6.1cm H:2.4cm
- Size (inches) L:3.54 H:2.40 H:0.94
- Weight: 196 grams (6.30 Troy oz) total.
Condition
Great Condition - The box is in great antique condition, with no major damage or issues. There is one section beneath the thumbpiece where the lid has worn slightly and has a gap when lid is closed. The lid still shuts tight with no issues. The cartouche on the base has possible signs of previous erasures. This does not affect usage and cannot be seen when placed on a table.
We aim to overemphasize and state these issues to avoid disappointment and thus please rest assured they are not significant nor affect the usage of the items.
Please refer to the photographs to examine the condition in further detail.
Free Shipping
We will always ensure your items are packaged with the utmost care and see the delivery through to the end. In the very rare and unfortunate case of non-delivery/courier loss, you are fully covered with us and we will fully refund you.
*Colours of the product may slightly differ from the photos due to different computer screens & lighting conditions*
- Price negotiations may be possible under certain criteria, please contact us via telephone (07578761640) or email (info@artisanantiques.net) -