Curiosity, Curiosa - Erotic Snuffbox, Case - Erotic Scene & Chimera - Folk Art

Early 19th century France – Circa 1800–1830 A compartmentalized box in carved natural wood, finely decorated on both sides with a visual program as free as it is ambiguous. The lid presents an explicit gallant scene, where a seated couple embrace in a lascivious posture—a popular image of love, frank and naive, free from any academicism. The reverse reveals a hybrid creature: a feline chimera with a dragon's snout, prominent claws, and a spiral tail, evoking the moral bestiaries or “warning” animal figures specific to popular visual culture. But it is inside that the object truly raises questions. The compartmentalized arrangement does not correspond to the classic model of a snuffbox: one of the compartments is a deep bowl, while two lateral cells hold the original metal stoppers. Such an arrangement suggests less a simple tobacco box than a personal object with multiple uses, perhaps for solid perfume, salts, or even powders or lozenges. This element of enigma gives the object a particular density, and shifts it from the utilitarian register to that of private ritual—or even symbolic. The riveted hinges, the brass clasp (seized but present) and the general gouge carving work indicate a mastered rural craft, undoubtedly from a domestic or family craft setting. The beaded edge decoration reinforces the frame effect, like a portable theater of everyday life. Historical and stylistic conclusion: Between a gallant box, a curiosa and a rural enigma, this piece is not a simple snuffbox: it is a hybrid object, personal and symbolic, witness to a popular culture that likes to divert forms and mix registers. A rare object, where eroticism, fantasy, the art of the hand and the art of the wink meet. Dimensions: – Length: approx. 9.5 cm – Width: 6 cm Condition: Very good overall condition. Beautiful brown patina. Original seized brass clasp. Minor wear consistent with age. Micro missing. Unrestored piece. Shipping exclusively via DHL, with secure packaging, tracking and insurance.