"18th Century Chased Brass Snuffbox"
A lovely 18th-century snuffbox, made of brass with richly chased decoration on all sides. The lid is adorned in the center with a coat of arms featuring crossed keys (Clermont family?) framed by a greyhound and numerous ornaments in the style of Jean Bérain. The underside is also decorated with different coats of arms in a similar ornamental style. The edges bear the signature of "Michel GENEVOIS," who crafted this piece, as well as an inscription in a gallant tone, but actually alluding to the nature of the box's contents (chewing tobacco): "To give my favors, I want to be pressed." Good overall condition, despite some general wear to the chasing and a small tear in the brass on one side of the lid. Dimensions: 12.5 x 7.5 x 3 cm