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Snuff Box (Tabatière) with Portrait of Marie-Thérèse of Austria
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In 18th-century France, ornately enameled boxes that held snuff—powdered tobacco—became a popular accessory in the French court. This box is decorated with a miniature portrait of Marie-Thérèse of Austria, the queen consort of French King Louis XIV. Their union was largely political. A year into their marriage Louis XIV took an official mistress, Madame Pompadour.
| Artist / Maker | Jean Petitot |
|---|---|
| Date | miniature, c. 1676; box, 1775–76 |
| Culture / Origin | France |
| Medium | Gold, enamel, and miniature |
| Dimensions | Overall: 2.3 x 4.5 cm (7/8 x 1 3/4 in.) |
| Department | Decorative Art and Design |
| Type | Enamel |
About the Artist
Jean Petitot (Swiss, 1607–1691) Full biography →
Provenance & Source
Image & data: Cleveland Museum of Art, CC0 / Public Domain.
Condition
A detailed condition report and high-resolution photography are available from our specialists in advance of the sale.
Shipping & Collection
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