S/4859 Antique Early 19th Century Papier Mache Snuff Box

A fine maroon papier mache snuff box, having a cameo by William Tassie. The fitted lid has a three dimensional cameo portrait of William Shakespeare set within a gold surround. Willaim Tassie was born in 1777 and was a gem and glass engraver, portraitist and cameo modeller of Scottish descent. He was working in London in the early 19th century. His works were finely executed, as shown by this excellent example we are fortunate enough to have purchased. After a most successful career he died in 1860 and is buried in Brompton cemetery, London. This is an excellent example of his work, is in pristine condition and of historical interest.

Sold 1 in. (2.5 cm.) High
3¼ in. (8.5 cm.) Diameter English Circa 1820