Rare Antique Georgian Spherical/circular Silver Gilt Snuff Box with Acanthus & Vine Decorations - John Bettridge 1823

We are delighted to offer this rare and exquisite Georgian solid silver gilt box made in Birmingham, 1823 with the marks of John Bettridge.

Featuring a wonderful bulbous and three-dimensional spherical design with a pull-off base and lid, this box sits right in the palm of your hand with a very reassuring quality feel owing to the good gauge of silver used in the creation of this piece.

Both sides present a meticulous repoussé and chased decoration of acanthus/vine leaves which encompass the central three-leaf motif. What is particularly impressive is the depth of the chasing and intricacy of the leaves despite the curvature of the surface.

Consistent right up to the reeded edges, stippled in the background and ornately embossed, this box is a testament to fine Georgian silversmithing which has all been done by hand in an era without electricity.

Needless to mention, the gold colour (silver gilt, gold on top of solid silver) is immediately captivating upon first glance and radiates a beautiful antique yellow 'lemon-gilt' tone.

The gilding continues with the interior on both parts, protecting the silver from tarnishing with whatever contents may be held within. Such boxes could be used for storing snuff or tobacco or perhaps with some creativity in the modern era, it could be an equally striking way to carry some small sweets or pills.

Overall, a splendid and collectable example of a uniquely shaped box which captures the essence of fine Georgian design and craftsmanship. A wonderful addition to a box collection whether be it for display or even practical usage.

The box is hallmarked with English marks on the inner bezel and outer reeded border. Some marks are hard to make out, however, with some close inspection, the Birmingham anchor and date letter "Z" for 1823 can be seen.

*All images with other items are for display purposes, this listing is for the title item only.

SIZE

Size (cm) W:4.5cm H:3.8cm

Size (inches) H:1.77 H:1.49

Weight: 42.4 grams (1.36 Troy oz)

CONDITION

Great Condition - The box is in overall great antique condition, with no major damage or issues. There is one very small area on the reeded border edge where it has been misshapen as shown in the last image. Otherwise in very good order and wear commensurate with age, the lid closes tightly with an excellent closure.

We aim to overemphasize and state these issues (if any) to avoid disappointment and thus please rest assured they are not significant nor affect the usage of the items.

Please refer to the photographs to examine the condition in further detail.

FREE SHIPPING

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We will always ensure your items are packaged with the utmost care and see the delivery through to the end. In the very rare and unfortunate case of non-delivery/courier loss, you are fully covered with us and we will fully refund you.

*All parcels are insured - please rest assured all shipping liabilities other than import/customs duty are covered by Artisan Antiques.

*Colours of the product may slightly differ from the photos due to different computer screens & lighting conditions*

- Price negotiations may be possible under certain criteria, please contact us via telephone (07578761640) or email (info@artisanantiques.net) -

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