An important George III Table Snuff Box made in London in 1788 by Thomas Phipps & Edward Robinson
An important George III Table Snuff Box made in London in 1788 by Thomas Phipps & Edward Robinson
374518
The Snuff Box is of a large, deep, size and is broad rectangular in form with canted corners. The cover displays a very unusual opening mechanism as the central section opens up with two sliding sections and a central oval rcess for the thumbs. This area is beautifully engraved with sunburst design which was favoured by Phipps & Robinson. The upper and lower sections of the cover display engraved ovals containing beautiful flower heads. The deep sides display engraved floral sprigs and detailed baskets of flowers, all in canted frames, on a prick dot ground. The corners also display flower heads in a diamond frame and each end, a beautifully detailed basket of flowers. The base displays a large sunburst design, around a raised vacant cut cornered cartouche. Once opened, the covers reveal a very finely gilded interior and a very crisp set of hallmarks. The top slides are also marked, on the underside, with the sterling mark.
Phipps & Robinson were the finest makers of Snuff Boxes in London at this date and their designs were very innovative. We have never seen this design before, so we conclude that it may well have been a special commission. The condition is exceptional, as is the quality of design and production.
Length: 4.25 inches, 28.13 cm.
Width: 3 inches, 7.5 cm.
Height: 1.25 inches, 3.13 cm.
Weight: 9.75 oz.
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