Before the introduction of cigarettes, loose tobbaco was sold, at this same time snuff was also used, this would be made from grinding tobacco to a fine powder, this would be inhaled through the nostrils, unlike tobacco which had to be placed in a receptacle such as a pipe and then ignited before smoking.
 
This is a small papier mache snuff box with gold pen work to the lid, it depicts a young gentleman with his faithful friend, the dog. the Victorians were very fond of sentimental imagery, dogs and children were popular motifs. This would have been in a wealthy household.
 
The penwork to the lid is in good condition, but there is a chip to the corner and some scuffing to the base, the hinge works well and the box closes with ease.
 
Dimensions: 9.5cm x 3.5cm x 2.5cm