Snuffbox 1757 - 1758

This Snuffbox was made by Jean Ducrollay in the mid-18th century. The box is made from gold, and decorated with enamel, a powdered glass which fuses to the surface when heated. Consider the material properties of gold: its high value, its malleability, its resistance to corrosion. These qualities made it the perfect luxury material for a portable status symbol like this one. The enamel painting adds another layer of refinement. Notice the scenes of everyday life, the people enjoying themselves at leisure. Each of these images required multiple firings in a kiln. Ducrollay was among the finest of the Parisian goldsmiths, catering to an aristocratic clientele with discerning tastes. The snuffbox is a reminder of a time when even small, functional objects could be elevated to the level of fine art. It’s a testament to the value placed on skilled handcraftsmanship, and a society organized around conspicuous consumption.