Description
This French Empire Boxwood Praying Monk Snuff Box dates to circa 1815. Carved from boxwood, the figure depicts a young kneeling monk in prayer, his hands crossed before him with both thumbs raised.
The monk wears a long robe and traditional tonsure haircut, with the carving following the folds of the clothing and facial features across the compact figural form. The surface has developed a warm, naturally aged patination, particularly visible across the raised areas of the carving.
A hinged hatch is concealed to the reverse of the figure, opening to reveal the compartment used for storing snuff. The functional element is incorporated directly into the carved body, allowing the object to serve as both a small figural sculpture and a personal snuff box.
Of French origin, the piece belongs to the Napoleonic period and reflects the popularity of carved figural snuff boxes in the early nineteenth century.
MEASUREMENTS
9.5cm High x 4.5cm Wide x 4cm Deep (3.74 x 1.77 x 1.57 Inches)
CONDITION
Very Good antique wear only, minor stress cracks above the hinge only
What is a Snuff box?
were used for containing snuff which is a mixture of ground tobacco and scented oils. Originally from the Americas Snuff became extremely popular in 18th century Europe, it was seen as a status symbol and undertaken by the elite in society. Commissioned snuff boxes of various materials would be bought by high status individuals as a sign of wealth and power. Snuff boxes became highly prized by collectors from 19th century when snuff was slowly phased out.
What is a Monk?
A Monk is a man who has dedicated his life to religion, partly by giving up some aspects of regular, worldly life. Many monks live together in a religious community. To a greater or lesser extent, a monk has chosen to leave society and devote his life to prayer and service.
Who was Napoleon (1769-1821)?
Napoleon Bonaparte (Napoleon I) was a French military leader and emperor who rose to power during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Born in 1769 on the island of Corsica, he became a brilliant general during the French Revolutionary Wars, gaining fame for his strategic genius and bold tactics. In 1799, he staged a coup and became First Consul of France, later declaring himself Emperor in 1804.
During his reign, Napoleon expanded French influence across Europe, defeating major powers such as Austria, Prussia, and Russia. He introduced important reforms, including the Napoleonic Code, which modernized legal systems and influenced laws worldwide. However, his ambitious military campaigns led to costly wars, culminating in a disastrous invasion of Russia in 1812. After his defeat in 1814, Napoleon was exiled to the island of Elba, but he escaped and briefly returned to power in 1815 during the Hundred Days. His final defeat at the Battle of Waterloo led to his exile on the remote island of Saint Helena, where he died in 1821. Despite his downfall, Napoleon remains one of history’s most influential figures, remembered for his military brilliance and lasting impact on Europe.
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At Jacksons Antique, we are a small family-run business with over 10 years of experience in the fine antiques trade. We are proud members of LAPADA (The Association of Art & Antiques Dealers) and CADA (The Cotswold Art & Antique Dealers’ Association), trusted by collectors, interior designers, and private clients worldwide.
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