Lot 613
Magnificent 19th Century 18K Yellow Gold Snuff Box of Exceptional Craftsmanship. Magnificent antique (19th Century) 18K yellow gold snuff box weighing 97.25 grams. The box (.75 x 3½ x 2") displays exceptional guilloché designs, the top, sides and bottom with foliate designs at edges and angled corners. Condition is excellent with just the slightest of very light scattered scratches only visible at close inspection. The hinge and lid are tight and shut squarely. The leather box has designs of the mythology of Cupid, well worn by age but beautiful still with the gallery name in Venice.
A center panel of Cupid in shackles is resting his head on the handle of a scythe. This references the Hellenistic Eros, punished by temporary helplessness: he is deprived of his weapons of bow, arrow, and torch to inspire love and passion. In Roman mythology, Cupid's mother Venus was jealous of the beauty of the mortal, Psyche, and ordered Cupid to punish her. Instead, Cupid fell deeply in love with her and took her as his wife. Eventually, the gods, moved by Psyche's love for Cupid made her a goddess and Cupid freed. Estimated Value $7,500 - 10,000
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| Realized $11,250 |
