Double snuffbox

Nicolas Bouillerot

ca. 1738–44 · Brown agate; gold · European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

This double snuffbox consists of two compartments, which can be opened separately. Airtight when both lids are closed, this box could carry two different types of snuff. The size of the box suggests that it was for communal use on a table rather than to be carried around in one’s pocket. The maker, Nicolas Bouillerot was one of the first Parisian goldsmiths to mount hardstones in snuff boxes, a tradition already established in Saxony earlier in the century.

Artist

Nicolas Bouillerot

Date

ca. 1738–44

Medium

Brown agate; gold

Culture

French

Department

European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Credit line

Bequest of Mrs. Charles Wrightsman, 2019