Snuffbox 1730 - 1740

This enameled gold snuffbox, made in Vienna, is a window into the leisure activities of the European aristocracy. Notice the playing cards meticulously painted on the lid. Gambling was a popular pastime among the upper classes, who had the means to indulge in such pursuits. The box itself, a luxury item, reflects the opulence of the era. Its creation was only possible due to a complex economic system that allowed for specialized craftsmanship and trade in luxury goods. How does this snuffbox comment on the social structures of its time? Well, it serves as a subtle indicator of wealth and status. As historians, we can look to sources, like personal letters or financial records, to better understand the social context surrounding the snuffbox. Understanding art means understanding the social conditions that shaped its production.