Rare 250 + year old treasure - bands of 18k gold against a pale salmon pink Vernis Martin snuff or patch or bonbon box (missing a 5th band lost from the bottom), this is a precious work of art. Unique, the miniature floral bouquet within is crafted of wax, including the etherial stems and blow. Preserved beneath the high bombe cover glass, one has to look at it for a moment to see that the pale swirls are part of the ribbon. Lots of gold on this one, acid-tested 18k, I do not have a weight since the bands are pin/nailed on and it would damage the piece to try to weigh just the gold. Full measurements are noted on the photos.
Very good to excellent condition for age and type. If someone had a gold bottom ring created for it, it would be near perfect. No damage to the shell interior lining, which is what, along with the size, indicates it began life as a snuff box. Must have been a special gift, indeed. The Vernis Martin work is superb, evenly retains its color and finish of layered paint and varnish. A few flakes of the wax misplaced within, but virtually all of the flowers still have crisp hand pressed petals. Lovely old thing - a true museum piece!
