Snuffbox 18th - 19th century

This delightful snuffbox was crafted at the Saint-Cloud factory sometime in the 18th century. A golden sunburst of yellow, ornamented with delicate, asymmetrical Chinoiseries in green and red, this object provides a glimpse into the culture of luxury and leisure that defined the European aristocracy. Snuff, or pulverized tobacco, gained popularity in the 17th century and quickly became a staple among the elite. Snuffboxes like this one became fashionable accessories, reflecting one's taste and status. The use of Chinese-inspired motifs speaks to the period’s fascination with exotic cultures. Beyond its aesthetic charm, the snuffbox also hints at a more complex story of global trade and cultural exchange, a story of power, privilege, and the commodification of pleasure. It speaks to the ways in which even the smallest objects can carry layers of meaning, reflecting our desires, aspirations, and the world we inhabit.