What is a snuff box and why do people collect them?

Snuff boxes date from a time when snuff taking was a popular habit, from the 18th to the mid-19th century.  The habit lingered on amongst the aristocracy and monarchy.  Snuff is pulverised tobacco and is ‘sniffed’ up the nose.  Snuff boxes can be exquisitely made and valuable, the very best are made of gold and mounted with precious stones.  The variety of materials, shapes and decorations make this a hugely diverse collecting field which is easy to display and enjoy.

_{Lot 559: An Italian white-metal mounted tortoiseshell snuff box, possibly Naples, mid-18th century}

Is it expensive to collect snuff boxes?

Snuff taking was popular amongst both high society and the working classes and this is reflected in the diverse quality of materials used.  Simple carved wood or papier maché examples can be picked up for relatively small sums.  At the other end of the spectrum, gold and silver examples made by top goldsmiths working in both England and on the Continent can be tens of thousands.

_{Lot 563: A French gilt-brass mounted tortoiseshell snuff box, late 18th century}

_{Lot 561: A George III lacquer and pique work snuff box, c.1780}

Is there anything I should look out for as a buyer?

Always check the condition of any snuff boxes you are considering purchasing.  There may be restorations or later additions, such as portrait miniatures or pictures attached to the interior of the lids, which effect the value.  The quality of the craftsmanship of any box should be self-evident, but do be cautious that the mounts are as described, be this gold, silver or gilt-metal.  It can make a huge difference to the value.

_{Lot 557: A French gold-mounted and pique snuff box, late 18th century}

What examples are included in the sale at Roseberys?

We have a lovely group of snuff boxes in our 17/18th November Fine & Decorative sale with examples from France, Germany, Italy and England.  Particular highlights are three French engine-turned tortoiseshell boxes (lots 563, 565 and 567); an Italian white-metal mounted tortoiseshell box with beautiful mother-of-pearl inlay (lot 559), and a Continental gilt-brass mounted tortoiseshell snuff box decorated with verre eglomisé borders to the cover (lot 571).

_{Lot 571: A Continental gilt-metal mounted tortoiseshell snuff box, early 19th century}

I think I may have some snuff boxes I’d like to sell.  How do I know if they are valuable?

Contact Roseberys with images and details of anything you are considering selling, and we are always happy to provide free valuations and friendly advice.

The auction will take place on Thursday 17 & Friday 18  November

Day 1: Fine & Decorative (Lots 222-478)

Day 2: Fine & Decorative (Lots 479-905)

BROWSE CATALOGUES

Viewing Times at Roseberys:

Sunday 13 November: 10 am - 2 pm

Monday 14 November: 9.30 am - 5 pm

Tuesday 15 November: 9.30 am - 5 pm

Wednesday 16 November: 9.30 am - 5 pm

Please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for condition reports and further information.