A beautiful 19th century snuff box, French in origin and a stunning little porcelain plaque oil painting, convex oval, depicting a young blond woman partially clothed and in the throes of orgasm from the look of it. Reminiscent of Bernini's sculpture in Rome, "The Ecstasy of Saint Teresa", posed with an angel just about to pierce her breast with the sword of the conviction of her belief in God. Or "Mary Magdalen in Ecstasy" by Caravaggio. A familiar religious theme of Catholicism. On our burled snuff, we're uncertain who the girl is. Certainly it is eroticism, 'naughty' as the collectors refer to these. The box is superb, beautiful and has some sort of maker mark on the interior which is heavy brass. Full measurements noted on the photos.
Very good to excellent condition throughout on this one, age and type considered. The painting on convex porcelain is superb, the fine burl wood body is excellent and has no chips nor cracks. The fitted brass interior and lip is perhaps in need of a polish, but is undamaged, no bends nor issues. The oval mat mounting appears to be silver, though no marks. Beautiful old thing!
