F. Boucheron: Snuffbox In Bloodstone Jasper & Solid Silver Vermeil. Late 19th Century, Late 18th Century.

An exceptional and superb snuffbox by the renowned Frédéric Boucheron.

The box is rectangular with scalloped edges, in the style of the production during the reign of Louis XV. It is crafted from magnificent bloodstone, extensively speckled with red. The body of the box is monolithic.

A very elegant vermeil hinged mount enhances this box. It is delicately decorated with acanthus leaves at the hinge and the handle.

The mount is engraved, in full, "Frederic Boucheron."

It bears the following hallmarks:

Double boar's head for silver of at least 800/1000 fineness

AM silversmith's mark with a star for Michel Menu.

Born in 1830, Frédéric Boucheron was a famous Parisian silversmith and jeweler. Beginning as an apprentice to the jeweler Jules Chaise, he founded his own business in 1858 and established his boutique in the Palais Royal. He quickly became a key player in the Parisian luxury and jewelry scene. He won his first gold medal at the 1867 Universal Exhibition with a gold watch. In 1893, he moved to Place Vendôme, now famous for its numerous jewelry stores and luxury boutiques.

Michel Menu, son of the goldsmith Alfred Menu, became a goldsmith himself in 1875 and later partnered with his father. A remarkable craftsman, he created many pieces displayed in Boucheron's window at the 1900 Universal Exhibition.

Our box therefore likely dates from the very end of the 19th century.

A superb box by one of the greatest French jewelry houses, still in operation today. The combination of this magnificent, dark green bloodstone contrasts beautifully with the gilt silver mount to create an object of exceptional value.

6.7 x 5.4 cm

3.2 cm high

123.1 grams

Very good condition. Minor wear to the vermeil at the handle and hinge.

Collection in Paris or shipping via insured Colissimo.

France: €15
Europe: €20
Rest of the world: €35