The decoration of this rectangular gold snuffbox illustrates the delight Parisian goldsmiths took in the recently introduced technique of engine-turning on precious metals. The lid features a central circular medallion surrounded by symmetrical cartouches with undulating outlines, set against a finely engine-turned geometric ground. The sides are similarly decorated with ornamental panels framed by delicate borders. The combination of precise geometric patterns and flowing rocaille-inspired motifs demonstrates the refinement of eighteenth-century goldsmithing.

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