Design for a Snuffbox Lid 1745 - 1755

This design for a snuffbox lid was made by an anonymous artist, and is now held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The delicate floral pattern reflects the luxury and refinement associated with snuff-taking in the 18th and 19th centuries. While snuff boxes were functional items, they also served as status symbols, and were often made from precious materials such as gold, silver, and ivory, and adorned with intricate designs. Snuff was an expensive commodity, and only the wealthy could afford to indulge in its use. The ritual of taking snuff was also highly stylized, with specific etiquette dictating how it should be done. The design reflects the values of the European aristocracy, who prized elegance, beauty, and refinement. An art historian can learn much about the social and cultural context of the artwork by examining the historical records of luxury goods manufacturing, consumer behaviour, and social customs.