{"product_id":"antique-19th-century-tortoiseshell-papier-mache-snuff-box-pewter-wire-inlay","title":"Antique 19th-Century Tortoiseshell Papier-Mâché Snuff Box Pewter Wire Inlay","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis elegant pocket snuff box exemplifies 19th-century craftsmanship, dating to circa 1820–1860 and likely produced in England or France. During the Georgian and Victorian periods, such \"day boxes\" (journée) filled with finely ground tobacco were essential accessories for the fashionable gentleman.\u003cbr\u003eCrafted from pressed papier-mâché or horn, the piece demonstrates the resourcefulness of period makers. Genuine hawksbill tortoiseshell was prohibitively expensive, so artisans employed specialized lacquers and stains to recreate the distinctive mottled, translucent amber appearance of authentic shell over compressed paper or horn substrates. The decorative composition features a central emblem and framing border lines executed in pewter or silver wire inlay—a hallmark detail that adds both visual refinement and tactile interest. The piece represents both social history and material ingenuity, reflecting how luxury aesthetics were made accessible to the expanding middle class during this period. There is a old crack at the front that does not effect the use or display of this amazing snuff box, Missing a few inlay pewter pieces \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Timeless Collectables","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55499821842773,"sku":"1806","price":50.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0942\/7560\/0725\/files\/newINVENTORYaddedeveryweek-2026-10-24T195946.501.png?v=1792869034","url":"https:\/\/timelesscollectables.co.uk\/products\/antique-19th-century-tortoiseshell-papier-mache-snuff-box-pewter-wire-inlay","provider":"TIMELESS COLLECTABLES","version":"1.0","type":"link"}