18th Century German Enamel Satirical Table Snuffbox, Dated 1770

A rare 18th century, dated 1770, German enamel satirical fashion-themed table snuff box with gilt-metal mounts, the lid depicting a lady in a city setting, her hairdresser atop a ladder to address her hairstyle in the huge, elaborate fashion of the late 18th century. The inscription reads “An.1770 dadie Scheinhait Mode War”, approximate translation: “In 1770 because the pretense was fashionable”. Two further scenes on the front and reverse and a small landscape on the base.

Measurements:
Length: 13.2cm (5.2in)
Depth: 6.4cm (2.5in)
Height: 4.4cm (1.7in)

Condition: Very good for the age and type. The lid closes well but does not “snap” shut. At either end of the exterior there are tight hairlines, almost imperceptible in normal viewing) and there is a short, approx 1cm, hairline on the interior front (see images). A line on the inside base is a ridge in the enamel.

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