Selection of Gold Boxes

The gold box is a microcosm of 18th Century luxury.  It demonstrates the ingenuity of design and the dexterity of craftsmanship found in so many of the decorative arts of this frivolous Century.  The reason for the sudden appearance of the gold box during this time was due to the fashionable habit of taking snuff.  The making of these gold boxes employed the most precious and rarest of materials; in addition to gold, semi precious hardstones, gem stones, mother of pearl, lacquer and enamel were all frequently used to make these conspicuously costly objects.