Exceptional 18th Century Sterling Silver Scallop Snuff Box, Louis XV Regency

Magnificent and extremely rare conch-shaped snuffbox dating from the first third of the 18th century.

The snuffbox is in the shape of a bivalve shell.
The lid is decorated with a natural scallop shell topped with a mascaron evoking Neptune.
The body of the snuffbox forms the second valve of the mollusk.

There are traces of silver-gilt in the channels.

The snuffbox is hallmarked:
. Date letter P for Paris, 1731-1732
. Discharge hallmark for the same period: crowned chancellor's mace
. Tiny traces of other hallmarks

Exceptional snuffbox, such shell-shaped pieces are extremely rare. This example is superb, the decoration is very organic and realistic without being totally naturalistic. There is a magnificent and touching wear of use proof of the attachment of its owner for this object who must have used it for many years as evidenced by the traces of pinching of tobacco in the bottom of the box.

6.6 x 4.8 cm
1.8 cm thick

55.65 grams

Good condition with a slight wear of use of the decorations, in particular under the box.

Hand delivery in Paris or insured Colissimo shipping.

France: €15
Europe: €20
World: €35