Wednesday 11 November 2009

Snuff box

Being sold at Christies is this 18th century meissen gold-mounted triangular-shaped masonic snuff box.

The catalogue description reads: "The cover painted with Fortuna holding a cornucopia and leaning against a column inscribed Le grand Art de se taire, masonic instruments at her feet, within a gilt line and band border, the sides with figures, carriages and buildings in parkland landscapes, the base with three birds perched on a rocky outcrop supporting a triangle below the inscription Trois au veritable., the interior of the hinged cover painted with a mason in a tricorn hat wearing and holding masonic symbols, with further instruments strewn at his feet, in a draped portico before distant classical buildings, the interior of the box richly gilt (slight wear to base and to gilt border of cover)3¼ in. (8.3 cm.) wide overall."

The sale is on November 17 and it is estimated to sell for up to £3,000.

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