Gold mounted heliotrope snuff box, Germany18th century

A Museum quality Rococo gold mounted heliotrope snuff box.

German, first half of the 18th century.

Measures 9.2 x 7.2 x 3.7cm.

The box comprises of just two pieces of hardstone, finely and extensively carved in relief with Rococo scroll work. The box is set with a wavy high carat gold mount with an integral hinge. The gold mount is unmarked.

Two similar examples can be found in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, Accession numbers: 48.187.425 & 17.190.1196

Although catalogued as French, a similar example can be found in the collection of the Royal Collection Trust, London, Accession number: RCIN 3959

A rather similar example, although embellished with precious jewels, was sold at auction by Sotheby’s, London on 10 December 2020; A TREASURY OF VERTU: Important Gold Boxes from a Private Family Collection, Lot 17 for a premium inclusive £201,600.