For the collector … an antique Persian lacquer snuff box dating to the late Qajar era, around 1880-1925. It features a pair of seated figures and floral vine decoration beneath a warm gold-toned lacquer finish. Likely constructed from papier-mâché or a similar composite, the box measures just under 4 inches long and remains in excellent antique condition, retaining fine hand-painted detail and a rich lacquered interior. This is an unusually decorative example of the craft that would display particularly well on a gentleman’s desk, bookshelf, or side table.
Lacquer boxes were highly popular during the Qajar period (1789-1925), when artisans in Persia (modern-day Iran) produced hand-painted pen cases, mirror cases, and snuff boxes finished in layers of hardened lacquer over lightweight molded forms. Seated court figures, garden settings, and floral vine decoration were recurring motifs in Qajar art and drew heavily from Persian painting traditions associated with aristocratic life, poetry, and music.
Size: 3-7/8” x 2-3/8” x 1-3/8”
Weight: 2.4 oz.
Condition notes: Excellent antique condition overall. Lacquered surface retains strong color, gloss, and fine hand-painted detail throughout, with only minor surface wear and discoloration to the lid, including visible rubbing to the face of the right-hand figure, together with some darkening and wear to the underside of the box, all consistent with age and handling. A small crack is present to one lower corner adjacent to the lid (see photos), though this is stable and does not affect the structural integrity of the box or the opening and closing action. Interior remains generally clean with light surface wear visible to the underside of the lid. Lid opens and closes easily and seats firmly when shut. See photos for more detail and feel free to contact the shop with any questions before purchase. Other items in photos not included.
Unless noted, all items are hand-wrapped and gift-boxed. We offer flat rate shipping via USPS Ground Advantage for $10, or USPS Priority Mail for $15. Orders over $100 ship free via USPS Priority Mail — any shipping charges for orders over $100 will be refunded after checkout. We pack with safety and care using recycled and recyclable materials whenever possible.
Sorry, no returns or cancellations. Please view all photos for more detail and feel free to contact the shop with any questions prior to purchase.
