Central European Double-barrel Pistol-shaped Snuff Box, 19th Century

A figurative snuffbox crafted in the form of a miniature double-barreled pistol, representing a rare and expressive example of European goldsmithing and decorative arts from the late Historicism period. The object belongs to the category of so-called “fantasy objects,” combining artistic innovation in form with a utilitarian function typical of social objects.

The body is made of silver and richly decorated with engravings and relief ornamentation imitating the decorative and structural elements of firearms. The exterior surface is covered with fine hand-engraved plant motifs and rocaille patterns, characteristic of the decorative style of European Historicism in the second half of the 19th century. The handle is designed as a sculptural composition adorned with elaborate relief carving.

The decoration includes cabochons of semiprecious stones, notably agate with its characteristic banded pattern, as well as pink and green stones. The stones are integrated into the ornamental structure of the handle and body, reinforcing the object’s jewelry-like character. Elements of polychrome enamel complete the decorative effect.

The mechanical part of the object is stylized after the construction of a firearm: the hammer and trigger guard form an original mechanism that activates the snuffbox’s opening system. The hinged lid provides access to the interior chamber designed to hold tobacco. The interior is entirely gilded and decorated with an engraved motif, in keeping with the tradition of snuffbox craftsmanship, ensuring the protection of the contents.

Hallmarks: French import hallmark for silver depicting a swan in an oval cartouche (Cygne). This hallmark has been used in France since 1893 for silverware of foreign origin inspected upon import.

Dimensions: Length: 11.5 cm; Width: 3 cm; Thickness: 3 cm.

Weight: 68 g.

Condition: Good.

Provenance: European private collection.

ID-ANTQ-16248