A unique snuffbox of exceptional artistic and collectible significance, carved from a single block of natural amethyst and mounted with a gold lid, centred with a hand-painted enamel medallion. The body is cut from a monolithic stone displaying natural colour zoning, with deep violet tones transitioning into lighter, milky-translucent areas, emphasising both the rarity of the material and the virtuosity of the lapidary work.
The cover is decorated in a rich Neo-Baroque manner, chased and engraved with gold foliate scrolls composed of rocailles, waves, shells and curving volutes, applied over a dark blue enamel ground. At the centre is an oval enamel medallion depicting an allegorical scene in the academic tradition of the first half of the 19th century, showing two female figures in classical dress standing beside an urn. The medallion is distinguished by refined modelling, a restrained palette and a contemplative mood evoking themes of memory, reflection and the inevitability of fate.
The combination of solid amethyst, high-standard gold and painterly enamel represents a rare example of ceremonial jewellery art produced in St Petersburg during the period of Historicism. The snuffbox was conceived not only as an object of personal use but also as a status symbol intended for representative purposes and international circulation, as evidenced by its hallmarking.
Marks: Russian gold standard “56”; St Petersburg assay mark (anchor); French import guarantee mark, in use from 1838; partially worn or illegible maker’s mark, attributed to the workshop of Johann Wilhelm Keibel (active 1788–1862).
Dimensions: Height 4 cm; width 8 cm; depth 5.5 cm.
Weight: 163 g.
Condition: Good overall condition. The amethyst is intact, without chips or cracks. The gold mount shows minor signs of wear consistent with age. The enamel is well preserved, with no losses or restoration. Hinges and clasp function properly.
Provenance: Private European collection. Previously Sotheby’s, Russian Works of Art, Fabergé & Icons.
Jewellery production in St Petersburg during the first half of the 19th century developed at the intersection of European artistic traditions and the refined tastes of the Russian Imperial court. Objects of personal use, executed in precious materials and imbued with complex symbolic meaning, assumed particular importance during this period. Snuffboxes, frequently exchanged as gifts or used in elite social circles, became markers of status and cultivated taste.
The use of solid amethyst reflects the era’s fascination with the decorative and symbolic qualities of natural stone. In 19th-century culture, amethyst was associated with moderation, memory and inner harmony, making it especially appropriate for intimate personal objects. Gold and enamel enabled the creation of richly layered surfaces that combined sculptural form with painterly refinement.
The revival of Baroque and Rococo motifs in the 1830s–1840s served to evoke ideas of luxury, emotional intensity and the transience of life. Enamel medallions with allegorical scenes continued the traditions of European painted enamel and required the participation of highly skilled miniature painters. The presence of a French import guarantee mark confirms the international circulation and desirability of such objects beyond Russia.
Comparable amethyst, gold and enamel snuffboxes attributed to St Petersburg workshops associated with Johann Wilhelm Keibel are represented in museum collections and regularly appear at major international auctions, where they are regarded as significant examples of Imperial Russian jewellery art of the early 19th century.
The snuffbox remains in a high state of preservation for its period. The stone is undamaged, the enamel is in excellent condition, and only light surface wear to the gold is visible, consistent with age and careful use.
The condition report is provided for informational purposes only.
It is not comprehensive and may not reflect all defects, restorations, alterations, or adaptations, as Antiqon does not perform professional conservation-level assessments. The information is based on a qualified, yet subjective, evaluation by our specialists.Before purchasing, we recommend consultation with an independent expert.Please also consult our Terms and conditions and Glossary A-Z, which contain important information on lot characteristics and sale conditions.
