Antique Dutch Brass Tobacco Box Adam, Eve, and The Original Sin Engraving
Description: An antique brass tobacco box from the mid to late 18th century. The box, which was very common in The Netherlands and Germany in the 18th century and early 19th century has engraving throughout. The top of the lid has an engraving depicting a nude woman lying under a tree with a nude man standing under the tree and a heavenly creature (angel or Satan) talking to him within a curvy-linear frame flanked by two cartouches with writing in them. The text in the cartouches, which we are unable to make out, most likely describe the scene, which we believe is about Adam and Eve under the apple tree. The entire design is in the center of the lid. The bottom of the box has engraved design showing both the man and the woman nude and sitting across from each other. Both are holding a snake in their hands suggesting the initial sin. Again, the image is in the center of the panel and is flanked with cartouches having writing which we are unable to identify but most likely explain the scene. The sides of the box are engraved with what looks people on various activities, from dueling with sticks, to a servant serving his mistress, etc. There are geometric designs at the canted sides of the box as well as text in the centers of the sides. The box is in very good condition with the hinge being intact and the lid closing tightly. The box is intact with no breaks or repairs It is relatively clean with residue of brass cleaning agent here and there. This is truly a miracle since these boxes are normally in much worse condition with broken hinges and many breaks and rust in the body as well as many repairs. A beautiful antique over 200 years old in good condition to add to your collection. Please carefully review the photos presented as they are part and parcel of our description.
Date: Uncertain but most likely in the mid to late 18th century (mid to late 1700s).
Origin: Uncertain, but must likely The Netherlands.
Size: Measures ~6" long, ~2 1/4" wide, and ~1 1/2" high with the lid closed. The piece weighs about 5.5 ounces.
Maker: Unknown.
Marks: Unmarked as to the maker.
Distinguishing Characteristics - Most Interesting About The Piece: A beautiful antique which would make a great addition to any collection.
Condition: The box is in good condition with no breaks or repairs. The engraved design is still evident and looks good. The hinge is intact and works as it should and the lid closes tightly as it should to preserve the tobacco. The box has no cracks and is relatively clean both inside and out. It does have residue of brass cleaning agent here and there. The box has a few minor scratches as well as a few minor dings, which truly do not distract from its beauty and quality. Other than that, the box has honest wear from cleaning making the engraved design less evident and the exterior has scratches and minor bumps. We have cleaned the box to be able to show the design, but we feel that it could benefit from a good cleaning to bring out its full beauty. We do leave that to the discretion of the new owner. Please see photos to appreciate the beauty and for additional condition information of this great piece.
