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Antique Victorian Sterling Silver Snuff Box Acanthus - Nathaniel Mills 1840

About the Item

We are delighted to offer this beautiful early Victorian snuff box with marks for Nathaniel Mills, Birmingham 1840. Nathaniel Mills was known for exceptionally fine boxes and arguably was one of the best box maker of the 19th century. Unsurprisingly, this snuff box is wonderfully designed and ornately embellished, typical of his style and wares. Impressive and as a testament to the quality of Mill's works, the overall shape has been carefully crafted in a cartouche-like shape with scalloped edges and elegant curves. One can imagine how difficult and time-consuming it would be to create this form in comparison to a straight-edge rectangular box. The very stylish, thin dimension of this box not only makes carrying this box ergonomic but also means that a high degree of skill is required to decorate it evenly. Despite its small surface area where ornamentations can be displayed, each panel and angle have all been wonderfully hand engraved with acanthus scrolls, flowers and foliate motifs. The interior of the snuff box reveals a stunning gilt interior compartment which presents an opulent lustre in contrast to its silver exterior. In addition to its aesthetics, the gold has a practical purpose as it acts as a layer of protection from the contents tarnishing the silver. Whether be it a wonderful collectable object of vertu or for holding snuff, small objects, tablets or even mints in the modern day, this box is a wonderful piece for the discerning individual. Remarkably stylish and classically elegant, this box not only fits in the palm excellently and is perfect as a pocket box but is bound to be a conversation starter for the keen-eyed and those that appreciate quality.A full set of English hallmarks is present on the interior lid/base. *Please note: all images with other items are for display purposes only, this listing is for the title item only. SIZE Size (cm) L:9.5cm W:4.2cm H:1.5cm Size (inches) L:3.74 H:1.65 H:0.59 Weight: 79 grams (2.53 Troy oz) total. CONDITION Great Condition - The snuff box is in great antique condition, with no major damage or issues. There are some minor nicks to the cartouche and some very slight surface scratches and wear commensurate with age. The decoration remains crisp and the interior gilding retains a wonderful lustre, the lid has a satisfying closure with a tight fit. We aim to overemphasize and state these issues to avoid disappointment and thus please rest assured they are not significant nor affect the usage of the items. Please refer to the photographs to examine the condition in further detail. FREE SHIPPING Artisan Antiques offers free global shipping with professional, secure and discreet packaging. We will always ensure your items are packaged with the utmost care and see the delivery through to the end. In the very rare and unfortunate case of non-delivery/courier loss, you are fully covered with us and we will fully refund you. *All parcels are insured - please rest assured all shipping liabilities other than import/customs duty are covered by Artisan Antiques. *Colours of the product may slightly differ from the photos due to different computer screens & lighting conditions*
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 0.6 in (1.5 cm)Width: 3.75 in (9.5 cm)Depth: 1.66 in (4.2 cm)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1840
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    London, GB
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU7296237874042
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