A very early 1700s burled lathe-turned wood table snuff, large for its time, distinguished gentleman in powdered wig worn by judges, an ermine collar, and in profile - a feature of the early 1700s. Also rare to find in 'grisaille' or the monochromatic painting style, which is quite dramatic against the painted brown backdrop - almost giving the image of a sculptured marble bust. The artist has signed the work, "Pourcelot Fecit" just below the bust. I have not learned more about the artist. Portrait remains in good form beneath the original oval and convex cover glass set in a mount encircled by fine tortoise shell trim. Similarly, the edge of the box is trimmed with the same beautiful tortoise shell trim and the interior lined with it, as well. A stunning and very early snuff for the collector. The more rare to show a judge or high honor avocat (attorney) of the French court. Full measurements are noted on the photos.
Very good to excellent condition throughout, age and type considered. I would mention that there are a couple of artist flaws to the painting, which can be seen through the cover glass. They are not accidents of preservation, but accidents of the process of painting the wafer. It does not detract from enjoyment nor value, however, as it is entirely original as you see it. RARE early museum piece, but we do not have his ID, unless perhaps he is Pourcelot Fecit. One might do more legal sleuthing and find him. I have not tried very hard. Beautiful wood, opulently beautiful interior.
IMPORTANT NOTE regarding antique tortoise shell or ivory: We are great supporters of protection for endangered species in our modern world. We never buy or sell anything 100 years or newer; we donate to anti-poaching organizations; we don't hunt; we conserve in ways that impact global warming (we're totally solar at home), knowing those measures also protect the animals in the wild today. We also recognize the vast cultural history we preserve with our care and reverence for these antique objects, and agree with CITES that objects over 100 years of age have nothing whatsoever to do with species depletion in our current world.
Our offering exceeds the age limitation of "more than 100 years of age", and is well within the exemption for CITES regulation. If imported, met the CITES regulation. This item will be handled and shipped from our Utah business, and is not available for shipment internationally, nor within the USA to California, NY, Nevada, Hawaii, New Jersey, Oregon, Washington if it contains ivory, sorry. Please see our small print for more details.
