ANTIQUE 19thC SWISS 18k GOLD SNUFF BOX, BAUTTE & MOYNIER, GENEVA c.1850
Antique mid-19th Century Swiss 18k gold snuff box, of rectangular form with rounded corners, chased and engraved throughout with scrolling folliage and rosetts, lid and base with engine turned decoration, the lid set with a three-colour gold scrolling flowers and foliage boarder on matted ground, with thumb piece engraved with a pair of mythical dolphins. Hallmarked Swiss 18k gold (750 standard), guarantee mark (used 1815 - 1881), Makers mark M&B (Bautte & Moynier).
Reference Number: A9047
DESCRIPTION
Antique mid-19th Century Swiss 18k gold snuff box, of rectangular form with rounded corners, chased and engraved throughout with scrolling folliage and rosetts, lid and base with engine turned decoration, the lid set with a three-colour gold scrolling flowers and foliage boarder on matted ground, with thumb piece engraved with a pair of mythical dolphins. Hallmarked Swiss 18k gold (750 standard), guarantee mark (used 1815 - 1881), Makers mark M&B (Bautte & Moynier).
The firm of Bautte and Moynier has its roots in the partnership formed in 1793 by Jean-François Bautte (1772-1837) and Jacques-Dauphin Moulinié. Jean-Gabriel Moynier joined the firm in 1804 but it was not until 1821 that it was known as Bautte et Moynier, this continued to 1826 when it changed to Bautte & Cie, effectively dating the present lot to the five years between 1821-26. For a discussion of the various partnerships involved see cat 218, p. 312, in H. Williams et al; Enamels of the World (London 2009).
CONDITION
In Great Condition - No Damage.
SIZE
Height: 2.4cm
Width: 9cm
Depth: 6.5cm
Weight: 161.8g