One of the finest we've had, this mid-1700s Louis XV to XVI era portrait snuff has a father and son, one on each face, mounted in ovals of 18k gold, and the entire snuff box encircled with no less than 4 bands of 18k gold encircling the outer perimeter. Truly a museum piece, this, decorated in Vernis Martin manner, lined in fine red shell, and so beautifully preserved for its age, it must have been well hidden or well-treasured for nearly 300 years. There is a very tiny gold mark on the substantial gold mounts, so tiny I can't quite photograph it. But it also acid tests 18k on all. Full measurements are found on the photos.
Very good to excellent condition for age and type, a stunning fine example of both the artist's work and the goldsmith's and box crafters. Entirely decorated in the layering of paint and varnish with a slight patterning, I can find one imperfect spot on a side panel (see out photos). No loss or damage to the 18k gold, which is substantial on this one. The interior thin lip has a very small chip which I've made a point to show on our photos. I do not see signatures, but the little paintings are superb, finely detailed and show no damage. I have not dismounted them, and one might find an ID or artist's signature within. RARE, rare item, this!
