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Antique Gutta Percha Snuff Box with Portrait of a Lady, Late 19th Century

Offered by: The Great Republic

Description
Presented is an antique gutta percha snuff box, with a small colored portrait of a lady on the lid. The snuff box dates to the late 19th century.

Snuff boxes were used for containing snuff, a mixture of ground tobacco and scented oils. The boxes were very popular, starting in the 17th century when snuff-taking became fashionable. They were often pocket-sized and had a tight fitting lid to prevent the snuff from drying out. Highly decorated and valuable objects, their designs evolved and changed as fashions did. It also became very popular to personalize snuff boxes as much as possible, with engraved names, significant decorations, or even portraits as seen in this example. Because of their ornamentation, they became collectors’ items in the 19th century.

Gutta percha boxes are sometimes referred to as “union cases” by collectors. They were made from a mixture of wood and shellac that was then pressed into a mold. The result was an early plastic-like product that still remains intact 100 years later.

CONDITION:

Good condition overall. Black gutta percha snuff box. Round, with a fitted lid. Lid has a beaded border and is decorated with a colored print of a young lady at top. Print has scattered areas of discoloration and foxing, some fading. Box has light scuffs.

Dimensions: 3/4" H x 2 1/2" W x 2 1/2" D.

Accompanied by our company's letter of authenticity.

More Information

Period:	19th Century
Condition:	Good.
Styles / Movements:	Modern
Incollect Reference #:	781995

Dimensions

W.	2.5 in;	H.	0.75 in;	D.	2.5 in;
W.	6.35 cm;	H.	1.91 cm;	D.	6.35 cm;

Message from Seller:

Established in 2010, The Great Republic specializes in one-of-a-kind collectibles that honor American history, with a special focus on the rare and unique. Our collection is complete with rarities that are sure to wow, such as first edition books, antique hand-sewn flags from the Civil War, vintage travel posters, and original signatures from American presidents, such as George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, just to name a few. P: 719.471.6157 E: headquarters@great-republic.com