Snuffbox 1805 - 1815

This snuffbox, now held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, was crafted by Victoire Boisot, widow of Etienne Lucien Blerzy. It's a fascinating object because of its dual nature. The delicately rendered portrait of Napoleon suggests the traditional world of fine art. Yet, it is encased in a silver box, intended for the very practical purpose of holding snuff. The high relief chased silver box elevates it to a status symbol, reflecting the owner's wealth and taste. Snuff taking was an aristocratic ritual, a social performance as much as a personal habit. Boisot inherited her skills from her late husband, suggesting a family workshop, passing down techniques and traditions. The piece embodies the intersection of craft and commerce, where skilled labor meets the demands of a consumer society. Ultimately, this snuffbox transcends the divide between art and craft. It is a testament to the skill of its maker, and the social context in which it was created and used.