French 1900 Round Bombe Snuff Box With Niello Checkerboard Design In 900 Silver

French snuff box in silver with Niello.

Beautiful hinged snuff box, created in Paris France back in the 1900. This box was crafted with a round bombe shape in solid .900/.999 silver and embellished with a beautiful checkerboard patterns made up in the difficult technique of Niello. Fitted with a hinged lid.

Weight: 33.90 Grams, (21.73 Dwt).

Measurements: 50 mm by 50 mm by 30 mm (1.97 x 1.97 x 1.18 Inches).

Hallmarks Stamped with French marks; two times with the mark for the assay and warranty of the silver.

Note: Niello is a black mixture, usually of copper and silver, used as an inlay on engraved or silver. It is added as a powder or paste, then fired until it melts or at least softens, and flows or is pushed into the engraved lines in the metal. It hardens and blackens when cool, and the niello on the flat surface is polished off to show the filled lines in black, contrasting with the polished silver. It may also be used with other metalworking techniques to cover larger areas. The metal where niello is to be placed is often roughened to provide a key. In many cases, especially in objects that have been buried underground, where the niello is now lost, the roughened surface indicates that it was once there.

Condition: The overall condition of this box is excellent. Beside the little normal wear, there is no heavy damage to the silver. The closing hinge of lid is working properly. This piece has been carefully inspected to guarantee the condition and the authenticity.

INVENTORY REF: D050723SNNK/.9778