Colonial America
Late 1700's Ornately Handcarved Bone Snuff or Pill Box
c. 1760 to Late 1700's Colonial Era, Ornately Hand-carved Snuff or Pill Box made of Bone, Very Fine.
This highly decorated Bone Snuff or Pill Box measures 3" x 1.5" x .75" high, with this is a carefully executed box having extensive ornate Hand-carvings over all surfaces. The top lid shows a reclining, nude female with curtains above. One end shows an animal (that appears to be a Lion; the other features another reclining nude female. The bottom of the bone case boasts the best carving of all - a male figure with hair in a queue, a massive cross on his chest, and a heavy cloak -- all reminiscent of King George II (but we'll leave the attribution to the buyer). This impressively scrimshawed box is made of carved light-colored bone with its sides attached separately, and its top lid cover attached with a metal hinge and pins. Minor cracks mostly due to age and shrinking of the bone. A really beautiful and intriguing piece that would be a nice addition to any collection of the Colonial period.