White “soap Bubble” Opaline Snuff Box With Gilt Bronze Mounts, Charles X Period

Circular fly box in white opaline, known as a ‘soap bubble’; the hinged lid is carved and moulded in the shape of a scallop shell, with the edges set in a gilded bronze mount.
France. Charles X / Restoration period (c. 1820–1830).
D_5.5 cm.
Good condition. 

During the Restoration and the reign of Charles X, the fashion for small, exquisite opaline objects enjoyed immense popularity. Inspired by nature and maritime motifs, these delicate pocket boxes, sculpted in the shape of shells or fruit, were used to hold pills, snuff or perfumes, and were among the most charming toiletries accessories of the early 19th century.

Our little opaline box, which follows in the fine tradition of Charles X-era display pieces, bears witness to the meticulous craftsmanship of the French master glassmakers and bronze smiths, combining the pearly softness of the opaline with the delicacy of its gilded frame.