Double snuffbox 1733 - 1744

Nicolas Bouillerot made this double snuffbox of gold and agate sometime before 1754. Look closely at the stone: it’s a variety called “eye agate,” characterized by concentric bands of color. The maker has skillfully cut and arranged the material to emphasize this striking pattern. The matching halves create a strong sense of symmetry, while the gold mounts add a touch of luxury. Snuffboxes like this were common accessories among the upper classes of the 18th century. They speak to a culture of refinement and display. Yet, this object also hints at global trade networks. Agate had to be extracted, transported, and transformed by skilled labor. Consider the social life of this object. From the mining of raw materials to the artisan’s workshop, it represents a confluence of nature, craft, and commerce, challenging our notions of art, design, and the world of work.