A beautiful little painting, just 1 5/8" in diameter - her face is less than 1/4" - of Psych and Cupid, bow not drawn, and quiver at rest, a pair of cooing lovebirds and Psyche holds an arrow. The significance in iconography is that Cupid's work is done and love is achieved between the 2, it's a celebration of having fallen in love. Might have been a wedding gift, or an engagement gift or souvenir to remember having fallen in love. There is no scent or stain of snuff, and it seems possible it was a patch or bonbon box souvenir. I think likely first half of 1800s and not earlier, though the theme reaches back to the mid-1700s in French art. Full measurements noted on the photos.
Very good to excellent condition, age and type considered, which also would indicate it was a treasured souvenir or gift. Lathe-turned wood box trimmed out in slender bands of shell, all of which remain. I see a shrinkage crack to report and it is shown (side view) in our photos, narrow and tight. The tiny painting is fascinating for its size and detail, and is without any damage or loss, protected still under slightly convex original cover glass and set, recessed, into the box's lid. Charming snuff box!
