Snuffers and tray 1718 - 1719

This silver snuffers and tray, created by French silversmith Achille Bellanger between 1718 and 1719, exemplifies the refined craftsmanship of the Rococo period. The set features a pair of elegant scissors with a decorative, stylized handle, mounted on a tray with a unique, asymmetrical shape, supported by three paw-like feet. The ornate back of the tray features a heraldic crest, hinting at the original owner’s social standing. This meticulously detailed work of art, now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s collection, reflects the luxurious taste and elaborate designs prevalent in the early 18th century.