WILLIAM IV Silver Mazeppa Snuff Box 1835 Birmingham EDWARD SMITH Sterling Silver
Item History & Price
| Reference Number: Avaluer:510328 | Brand: Edward Smith |
| Product: Boxes | Age: 1800-1849 |
| Composition: Solid Silver |
A very interesting William IV Snuff Box made in Birmingham 1835 by Edward Smith.The cast top is also hallmarked with a lion Passant.The cast lid revealing the subject of Mazeppa being dragged by his horse backwards through a Forrest.'Mazeppa' or 'The wild Horse of Tartary' was an equestrian drama, adapted by Henry M. Milner from Lord Bryrons poem, itself inspired by a Polish legend. Ivan Mazeppa, handsome young nobleman falls in love with Olinska who is betrothed against her will to an... evil count. Mazeppa challenged the Count to a duel and defeats him, but agrees to spare his life in return for safe conduct. The Count reneges on his word and Mazeppa is arrested by the counts men who strip him naked, and tie him to an untamed steed. The fairy stallion fortunately gallops Mazeppa back to his own country and all ends well.I believe the silver Gilt panel on the inside of the lid is not original as there should be hallmarks on it, perhaps it was replaced because of an inscription. It certainly has age and the colour has faded.There has been a small repair to the hinge, furthest left looking at Box from the front with it open. The hinge is in excellent working order.The box shuts securely and tightly.It has a very heavy and solid feel for its size and weighs 182 grams or 5.85 Troy Oz.8cm by 5.2cm2.2cm height3cm height to the highest point of the Cast top.A wonderful piece of Silver with an interesting story behind it.Please feel free to ask any questions about this item or any of my other items for sale. I offer a full money back guarantee if you are unhappy with your item, if returned within 14 days of receipt.
