Victorian Papier Mache Snuff Box in Black Lacquer with Mother of Pearl Inlay | Antique Tobacciana c. 1870-1900

For the antiquarian … an attractive 19th century papier-mâché snuff box, dating to around 1870-1900, finished in black lacquer and inlaid with a border of mother-of-pearl chips surrounding a central oval cabochon.  In excellent antique condition, the box features a tight-fitting hinged lid, a smooth molded body, and a deep gloss surface typical of Victorian lacquer work.  This is a particularly decorative example that would make a standout display piece on a gentleman’s desk or side table, perhaps as a catchall for cufflinks or other personal effects.

Snuffboxes were used for containing snuff, a mixture of ground tobacco and scented oils, and were a common personal accessory as early as the 18th century and onto into the early 1900s, when snuff-taking was popular.  Papier-mâché was an ideal material for snuff boxes because it was inexpensive and also maintained the correct humidity for the tobacco. The production process was incredibly labor-intensive, involving building up to 100 layers through repeated application and baking to make the box hard and water-resistant.

Size: 2-1/2” x 1-5/16” x 7/8”
Weight: 0.8 oz.

Condition notes: Excellent antique condition overall with minimal signs of wear. Black lacquer surface remains deep and even with only light handling marks visible, and minor edge wear concentrated along the bottom surface. Underside of the front lip of the lid shows a small area of surface wear from repeated opening and closing, consistent with age and use. Mother-of-pearl inlay remains intact and well set throughout with no observed losses. Lid opens and closes smoothly and seats securely 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.