Snuff box 1780 - 1800
Gold, enamel | 2.1 x 6.8 cm (whole object) | RCIN 4084
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Circular gold snuff box, the hinged lid inset with an enamel miniature of the Judgment of Paris, framed by chased border of acanthus leaves. Engine turned base and sides. Inside the lid is a second miniature showing another scene from the history of Paris.
The lid of this box shows an episode from the life of Paris, a Trojan prince who was asked to judge the most beautiful of three goddesses, Venus, Juno and Minerva. Paris awarded the prize to Venus. The prize, a golden apple, was in fact the Apple of Discord, and this episode was said to have led to the Trojan War and to Paris's death.
This box was one of a group left to Queen Victoria by her aunts, Princess Sophia and Princess Augusta, daughters of George III, who bequeathed thirty snuff boxes to their niece.Provenance
Given to Queen Victoria by her aunts, Princess Augusta and Princess Sophia (Osborne House inventory 1876).
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Creator(s)
Acquirer(s)
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Medium and techniques
Gold, enamel
Measurements
2.1 x 6.8 cm (whole object)