19th C. French Carved Boxwood Snuff Box, Prince Eugene at His Mother's Tomb

Details

Description

A finely carved circular snuff box in boxwood or possibly elm (interior possibly faux tortoiseshell), French, early 19th century, the … Read more A finely carved circular snuff box in boxwood or possibly elm (interior possibly faux tortoiseshell), French, early 19th century, the lid deeply modeled in high relief with a classical mourning scene inscribed “LE PRINCE EUGENE AU TOMBEAU DE SA MÈRE.” The subject commemorates Prince Eugène de Beauharnais (1781–1824), son of Empress Joséphine, shown in an attitude of grief beside a monumental tomb within a wooded landscape. The carving, probably executed by a provincial or Dieppe-trained craftsman, combines delicate linear engraving with rounded modeling to evoke both architectural and natural textures.

The interior reveals a smooth, darkened patina consistent with age and use, the two-part circular form turning smoothly on its lip, and the base of the lid faintly engine-turned with concentric wave ornament—an effect suggesting the influence of French medallic art of the Napoleonic period. The overall tone of the wood has mellowed to a rich honey-brown, with traces of darker surface oxidation enhancing the sculptural relief.

Boxes of this type were popular mementos during the Restoration and early Romantic eras, often commemorating heroic or sentimental subjects drawn from Napoleonic history. The present example likely dates between 1815 and 1830, produced in the wake of Eugène’s death and reflecting the cult of remembrance surrounding the Bonaparte family.

Measurements: 3.125 in diameter.



Cataloging note - Another box in not as good condition was sold in the auction "NAPOLEONIC COLLECTION OF THE PRINCE'S PALACE OF MONACO". See less