Musical Snuffbox with Micromosaic Pliny's Doves, 1819

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A rare and exquisite musical snuffbox crafted from 18-karat gold, decorated with a unique micromosaic depicting Pliny`s Doves, one of … Read more A rare and exquisite musical snuffbox crafted from 18-karat gold, decorated with a unique micromosaic depicting Pliny`s Doves, one of the most recognizable motifs of classical antiquity. The composition, executed in the Roman micromosaic technique, depicts four doves perched on the rim of a gilded bowl and alludes to the famous mosaic found in Hadrian`s Villa in Tivoli. The image is framed by a rich blue border and placed on a lid richly embossed with floral motifs. The box body is crafted with exceptional care: the sides are decorated with a floral frieze, a guilloche background, and ornamental inlays on the corners. Inside is the musical mechanism, which retains its original structure with fan-shaped reeds. Two keys are included for winding the mechanism and activating the melody. Hallmarks: French export hallmark rooster with a right profile (18K gold, 1819-1838), hallmark in the form of a teapot spout (presumably an assay inspector`s or jewelry workshop`s hallmark). Dimensions: 4.5 x 3.5 cm. Height 2 cm. Medallion: 3.5 x 2.5 mm. Weight: 83 g Condition: Good. The musical mechanism has been completely overhauled. Origin: France, first half of the 19th century See less