SNUFF BOX WITH A PORTRAIT OF EMPEROR ALEXANDER I. MOREL. FIRST QUARTER

A finely crafted circular table snuff box dating from the first quarter of the nineteenth century, fashioned from Karelian birch and veneered with genuine tortoiseshell. The lid is centred with an inset gilt brass medallion depicting the profile portrait of Emperor Alexander I of Russia (1777, 1825). Encircling the portrait is the inscription, ALEXANDER. I., while the lower edge bears the signature Morel, identifying the medallist responsible for the portrait. Commemorative snuff boxes of this type became highly fashionable throughout Europe following the defeat of Napoleon and the Congress of Vienna, when Alexander I was widely regarded as the sovereign who helped restore peace and political balance to the continent. The refined combination of richly figured Karelian birch, luxurious tortoiseshell veneer and finely cast gilt brass medallion exemplifies the decorative arts of the Empire period. Marks: Signed on the medallion: Morel. Circular inscription: ALEXANDER. I. Dimensions: Height: 2.3 cm. Diameter: 8.5 cm. Condition: Good condition, consistent with age.

Estimate:£334.68

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