Tabaksdoos met aanbevelingen voor de man van de wereld 1793

This is a silver tobacco box, made in 1818 by Simon Woortman. This object transcends its utilitarian function, offering a window into the social rituals of its time. Tobacco use in the 19th century was deeply intertwined with masculine identity, and class distinctions. The box, with its inscription “Recommendations for the man of the world,” reflects the era’s emphasis on etiquette and social status. Consider the act of offering tobacco from such a box. It was a gesture loaded with social meaning, reinforcing bonds of friendship, sealing business deals, and solidifying class hierarchies. The engraved scenes on the lid, possibly depicting leisure activities or landscapes, further underscore the lifestyle this object was meant to complement. This tobacco box speaks to how even everyday objects play a role in shaping and performing identity. It serves as a reminder of how deeply ingrained social practices can become intertwined with personal habits and self-expression.