Interesting 18th Century Secret Snuff Box. Martin Varnish, Gold & Miniature. Louis XV

Magnificent 18th century box with a superb miniature portrait dating from the 1770s. 

The box is round, in khaki green martin varnish. 
The box is enhanced with numerous gold rims. 

The interior is tortoiseshell. 

The bottom of the box is decorated with a miniature which is unfortunately very worn with the center completely erased. 
It is in a hinged surround that should lift up to reveal a secret compartment. I haven't been able to figure out how to open this compartment. Perhaps it got blocked over time or was condemned later. 

The lid is also decorated with a superb, very high quality miniature, in a gold rim. 
The miniature represents a woman with a slightly slanted bust. She wears a rich dress closed with a pink ribbon. She has a frank look and strong-willed features. 
Her hair is swept back in a high hairstyle, characteristic of 1770s fashion. 

This portrait is absolutely sublime and of great quality. The details are very fine, the skin tone is superbly done, just like the look which is very lively, the pleats and lace of the clothing are very realistic. The miniature is not signed but it is certainly the work of a talented miniaturist. 


I did not find a hallmark but the gold was tested with a touchstone. It is 18k gold, apart from the rim of the bottom of the box which is in 14k rose gold. 

6.8cm diameter
2.6 cm high 

57.38 grams

Good condition. Small cracks in the Martin varnish, normal wear due to age.

Hand delivery in Paris or sending by insured Colissimo. 


 France: 15€
Europe: 20€
World: 35€