S/5539 Antique Early 19th Century Cowrie Shell Snuff Box

A most attractive cowrie shell snuff box, having a base that opens with a white metal frame hinge, so that one can use the whole of the interior. Cowrie shells are found in abundance in the Indian Ocean and as well in various other parts of the world. They were extensively used in jewellery and for other decorative purposes, including snuff boxes as in this instance.

Sold 3¼ in. (8.5 cm.) Wide
2 in. (5 cm.) Deep
1¾ in. (4.5 cm.) High
English Circa 1820