Snuffbox
Date1768 - 1774
MediumGilded sterling silver
Dimensions1 1/4 × 3 × 2 1/4 inches (3.2 × 7.6 × 5.7 cm)
MarkingsMaker's mark: JH below crowned fleur-de-lys;
Warranty mark: crowned F (1768-1769);
Discharge mark: 1768-1774
Credit LineMuseum purchase.
Object number2015.14
CopyrightThe images and text contained on this page are owned by Telfair Museums or used by the Museum with permission from the owners. Unauthorized reproduction, transmission or display of these materials is prohibited with the exception of items deemed “fair use” as defined by U.S. and international copyright laws.Label TextThis parcel-gilt sterling silver snuff box is covered in repoussé and chased decoration. The allegoric scene on the cover depicts Zeus liberating the Cyclopes (storm gods) from their prison in the bowels of the earth. The Cyclopes gave him thunderbolts and lightning and fought for him against the Titans, thereby bringing the Olympians to power.
The box has a Marquis de Lafayette family provenance, with an abolitionist theme.