Antique Lacquered Paper Mache Snuffbox or Snuff Box MOP Inlay Decoration
Description: Antique lacquered paper mache or papier-mâché rectangular snuffbox or snuff box in the shape of a coffin. The box has a hinged lid. The snuffbox is lacquered in black color and the lid has a Mother Of Pearl (MOP) inlay design showing a floral and foliate scene with a bird perched on a branch. Look at the details in the design, you can see the feathers in the bird's wing and its tail. The interior of the box is also lacquered in black, but has residue on the surface. The box has a hinged lid and the lid no longer closes tightly. Please view photos as they are part and parcel of our description.
Date: Early to mid-1800's.
Origin: Probably continental.
Size: ~3 3/4" by ~1 5/8" by ~1 1/4" high.
Maker: Unknown.
Marks: Unmarked.
Distinguishing Characteristics - Most Interesting About The Piece: A beautiful antique which would make a great addition to any collection.
Condition: The snuff box is in very good condition with no major problems. It does have wear commensurate with its age and function. The hinge works very well but the lid no longer closes tightly. There are cracks to the surface (they do not appear to go all the way through) at the back edges by the ends of the hinge, which we show in the Photos. Also some losses to the lacquer on the corner of the base due to wear as well as losses in the interior again near the hinge at the middle. There are also some minor defects to the lacquering on the top of the lid which looks like small round depressions, but does not exhibit loss of lacquering. We are not certain what it is, but it really does not affect the beauty or quality of this antique. Finally, the inside has some material which looks like dirt or residue on the surface, which we have not attempted to clean leaving that to the next owner. Be that as it may this is a great antique which very seldom comes by in such a good shape. Please see photos for additional condition information.
