Snuifdoos met het portret van Anna van Barnevelt (1725-1789) c. 1773 - 1774

This is Nicolas-Augustin Delions’s snuff box with the portrait of Anna van Barnevelt, likely crafted around the 1720s. Snuff boxes were luxury items, emblems of wealth and status in the 18th century, and were used to hold finely ground tobacco, enjoyed by both men and women. This one presents an intriguing glimpse into the life of Anna van Barnevelt, whose portrait is prominently displayed. While seemingly a celebration of individual identity, these objects also highlight the constraints and expectations placed upon women of her social standing. Consider the role of women in aristocratic society during this era, where appearance and social connections were paramount. The snuff box, in this context, becomes more than just a personal item, it is a statement of belonging and adherence to a certain code of conduct. Reflect on the power dynamics at play, where even personal items like snuff boxes are laden with social and cultural meaning.