Carved Anthropomorphic Snuff Box – Mamluk Head With Inlaid Eyes – Folk Art

Dating: Late 19th century Origin: France – Massif Central Anthropomorphic wooden snuffbox, finely carved in the shape of a Mamluk's head, with a moustache and wearing a spiral turban. The eyes are inlaid with metal, accentuating the expressive and almost theatrical character of the face. Two brass nails, visible on either side of the neck. This type of popular snuffbox, rare in this complete and animated form, is part of the tradition of sculpted objects with a typological or imaginary character. On the reverse, a stylized tree of life is engraved in hollow, affirming the symbolic significance of the object: rooting, fertility, protection. Under the base, the initials AR, inscribed in pen, undoubtedly designate its owner or the recipient of an emotional gift. The whole, with great plastic coherence, testifies to true know-how: regular lines, clean volumes, warm and homogeneous patina. The hollow interior allowed you to store snuff or chewing tobacco. Dimensions: 8.5 cm Condition: very good condition, old patina, perfectly functional hinge, minimal signs of use, missing right side of lid but not bothersome. ALL DELIVERIES ARE MADE BY DHL EXPRESS ONLY.