Victorian Snuff Box with Inset Family Portraits Hand-Carved Circa 1850–1880
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: United Kingdom or France
Material: Hand-carved bone with inset photographic portraits and brass hinges
Period: Mid to Late Victorian Era (circa 1850–1880)
Description
This striking 19th-century snuff box unites fine craftsmanship with the intimacy of early photography. Fashioned from polished bone panels, the domed lid is inset with three sepia-toned portraits—likely albumen or silver gelatin prints—depicting a formally dressed gentleman flanked by two women, perhaps relatives or nobility. Each photograph is neatly fitted under glass into the carved surface, preserving their clarity and sentiment. The box opens smoothly on original brass hinges to reveal a hollowed interior, originally intended for snuff or small valuables. The exterior is finished with incised rope and crosshatched designs, classic hallmarks of Victorian bonework.
Features
- Hand-carved and polished bone construction
- Inset with three original 19th-century photographic portraits under glass
- Decorative rope and linear carvings along lid and body
- Hinged lid with original brass fittings
- Rich aged patina with mellow coloration
Cultural Significance
Portrait snuff boxes such as this served as highly personal keepsakes, commemorating family lineage or loved ones while showcasing the novelty of early photography. Combining sentimental value with the precision of fine bone carving, they reflect Victorian-era fascination with both technological innovation and personal memento culture.
Condition
Excellent antique condition with minor age-related wear. Brass hinges remain functional and secure. Bone surfaces show subtle age lines and warm patina. Photographs remain intact and well preserved beneath the glass.
Dimensions (approximate)
Length: 3.5 in
Width: 2 in
Age
Approx. 145–170 years old (circa 1850–1880)
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: United Kingdom or France
Material: Hand-carved bone with inset photographic portraits and brass hinges
Period: Mid to Late Victorian Era (circa 1850–1880)
Description
This striking 19th-century snuff box unites fine craftsmanship with the intimacy of early photography. Fashioned from polished bone panels, the domed lid is inset with three sepia-toned portraits—likely albumen or silver gelatin prints—depicting a formally dressed gentleman flanked by two women, perhaps relatives or nobility. Each photograph is neatly fitted under glass into the carved surface, preserving their clarity and sentiment. The box opens smoothly on original brass hinges to reveal a hollowed interior, originally intended for snuff or small valuables. The exterior is finished with incised rope and crosshatched designs, classic hallmarks of Victorian bonework.
Features
- Hand-carved and polished bone construction
- Inset with three original 19th-century photographic portraits under glass
- Decorative rope and linear carvings along lid and body
- Hinged lid with original brass fittings
- Rich aged patina with mellow coloration
Cultural Significance
Portrait snuff boxes such as this served as highly personal keepsakes, commemorating family lineage or loved ones while showcasing the novelty of early photography. Combining sentimental value with the precision of fine bone carving, they reflect Victorian-era fascination with both technological innovation and personal memento culture.
Condition
Excellent antique condition with minor age-related wear. Brass hinges remain functional and secure. Bone surfaces show subtle age lines and warm patina. Photographs remain intact and well preserved beneath the glass.
Dimensions (approximate)
Length: 3.5 in
Width: 2 in
Age
Approx. 145–170 years old (circa 1850–1880)
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