Antique Silver Snuff Box Victorian with Fine Engravings Cartouche Design - Edward Smith 1850

Description and Details 

We are delighted to offer this beautiful hand-engraved solid silver snuff box made in Birmingham in 1850 with the maker's mark of Edward Smith.

This snuff box is an exemplary piece of intricate Victorian silverware displaying the most desirable attributes and impressive craftsmanship. 

The entire box is shaped in a cartouche-like manner with ornate curves and scalloped corners. Each and every part of the box is magnificently hand engraved with acanthus leaf scrolls that seamlessly flow into each other.As a further testament to the high degree of skill, even the base of the box which would normally be unseen when placed on a table, is equally, if not more impressive in design. The engraver has utilised this part to display the art and precision of fine hand engraving with the whole panel being covered edge to edge without a single slip of the hand. 

One can imagine the amount of skill, patience and care that has gone into crafting and embellishing a single small object with the amalgamation of each part resulting in a quality feel when held in hand. The top lid also features a presentation engraving as these boxes were often used as important gifts to celebrate noteworthy achievements, gratitudes or as a token of respect. The engraving reads: "Presented to P.N.F John Lilcock by the Officers & Brethren of the Duke of Clarence Lodge No29 of the A.N.O of U-Odd Fellows as a Token of respect for his Services during the last TEN YEARS" - Bolton 23rd August 1856. The interior of the snuff box is fully gilt with a 'frosted' finish. The layer of gold not only acts as an accent to the silver exterior but prevents the contents inside from tarnishing the silver. 

In the modern day, such boxes could be used to store small items, mints and pills in addition to the traditional snuff (tobacco) that would have been stored within. 

The hinge of the box is also impressive with such a fine yet smooth mechanism that can be fully appreciated upon taking a closer look at the precision of each joint. 

A full set of English hallmarks are present on the interior lid/base of the box. A fine Victorian snuff box ideal for box collectors or as a distinguished gift.

*Please note: all images with other items are for display purposes only, this listing is for the single snuff box only. 

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