Scottish provincial silver snuff box, Aberdeen, c.1792

A very rare Scottish provincial silver snuff box, made by James Erskine of aberdeen c.1792. Aberdeen snuff boxes are scarce especially from the 18th century. This box has maker's marks in the top and base, the "IE""THISTLE" and "BOARS HEAD". The boars head mark was almost unique to Erskine and it comes from the coat of arms of Bishop William Elphinston of Aberdeen the founder of Aberdeen University who also have three boars heads in their crest. The box has an old repair on the interior and it has been regilded. The exterior has bright cut engraving on all sides. The 5 part hinge is tight and the lid snaps shut. This box is a survivor and exceptionally scarce.

WEIGHT; 57grams or 1.8ozst.