An exceptionally detailed French snuff box, carved circa 1820 from the exotic coquilla nut — a prized material of the early 19th century, valued for its dense grain and ability to hold intricate detail.
The front panel features a finely carved equestrian scene: a horse before rustic fencing, with an overturned cart adding narrative charm. Floral rosettes, scrolling foliage, and drapery-like swags encircle the sides in deep relief, while the ends terminate in bold sculptural motifs. Inside, the hinged lid opens to reveal a smooth interior, its lid exterior is incised with a compass-star — a discreet touch of folk artistry.
Coquilla nut objects were a fashionable curiosity in early 19th-century France, often carried as personal accessories and admired as miniature works of art. This example stands out for its subject matter and the crisp preservation of its carving.
Origin: France
Date: Circa 1820
Material: Coquilla nut with brass hinge
Dimensions: 3.75ʺW × 1.75ʺD × 1ʺH
A rare survival of early 19th-century craftsmanship, equally at home in a refined snuff box collection or as a conversation-worthy accent in a curated interior.
