18th-century London Enamel Snuff Box, Silver-gilt Mounts

A rare eighteenth-century London enamel snuff box of cartouche form, circa 1750, with silver-gilt mounts. The lid and base mounts are hallmarked “F.W” and “A”, the latter with a bar beneath the “A”. The exteriors of the lid and base mounts are decorated with a chased chain motif. The lid and base are decorated with flower sprays in the manner of Chelsea porcelain of the period. The sides are decorated with a raised gilded band of inverted arches.

Measurements:
Width: 5 cm (2 in)
Depth: 3.8 cm (1.5 in)
Height: 2.2 cm (0.9 in)
Weight: 33.8 g (1.19 oz)

Notes: The cartouche shape of the box, with the rounded base, is similar to that of silver snuff boxes of the mid-eighteenth century. The “F.W” is possibly that of Fuller White, known to have been working in London between 1746 and 1758. The “A” mark with the bar beneath does not appear to correspond to a date.

Condition: In good condition for age and type. Some very short and faint hairlines in the enamel on the inside and outside of the base extending from the mount downwards. The gilding is mostly worn from the silver mounts, but is still visible on the inside. The hinge appears to be in perfect condition, and the lid snaps closed. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals faint flares of restoration to the exterior of the base, particularly to a small area on the right side in the gilded inverted arches.

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