Lot 868 , A good late 18th/early 19th century Swiss gold, enamel, split pearl and miniature portrait inset oval snuff box.

A good late 18th/early 19th century Swiss gold, enamel, split pearl and miniature portrait inset oval snuff box, by Francois Joanin, Geneva, the hinged lid with split pearl border and blue enamel ground inset with oval watercolour portrait of a lady with string of pearls in her hair, the enamelled beaded border with ribbon crest, the sides enamelled with spheres and blue guilloche enamel panels, the base with unusual 'holographic vortex' effect oval panel, in blue guilloche enamel, 8.5cm.
Estimate £4,000-6,000

A number of the split pearl have visible damage to the surface around the circumference of the lid. Small graze chip to the blue enamel just to the left below the portrait. A few tiny nicks to the blue and white enamel around the shoulder. Two of the small blue enamel spheres are missing around the base rim and there are visible cracks and tiny nicks to some of the white enamel around the base rim also. Interior clean with clear marks.


Descriptions provided in both printed and on-line catalogue formats do not include condition reports. The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Interested bidders are strongly encouraged to request a condition report on any lots upon which they intend to bid, prior to placing a bid. All transactions are governed by Gorringes Conditions of Sale.

Sold for £8,000