Snuffbox with genre scene 1761 - 1762

This 18th-century snuffbox by Jean-Lambert Payen, crafted between 1761 and 1762, showcases a charming genre scene. Depicting a group of figures engaged in lively conversation and drinking within a rustic interior, the miniature artwork captures the warmth and camaraderie of everyday life. The intricate details, such as the worn furniture and the half-empty vessels, contribute to the overall realism of the scene, making the snuffbox a delightful example of French Rococo decorative art. Currently housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, this small but exquisite object offers a glimpse into the social interactions and domestic settings of the era.