Carved wooden tobacco box

1 July 2024

This elongated tobacco box has the same model as the traditional Dutch brass tobacco boxes from the second half of the eighteenth century. The form and design is also based on this. On the lid we see three medallions with figures surrounded by Louis XV motifs. The performance is a bit folksy, but done with panache. The outer edge shows a series of connected classical buildings. You would hope that they could be identified, but unfortunately that is not the case. What makes this well-preserved box so intriguing is that its meaning, known to everyone at the time, now appears to be a mystery. It is certain that such boxes were made in series, but where and when exactly is not even known. With extra attention in the coming months, we will hopefully learn a little more about the background of this attractive box.

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