Chased gold mechanical automaton musical snuff box, Joseph-Etienne Blerzy, circa 1775, France-China Archive

Image Number: K1A002453N000000000PAG
Dynasty: Qing dynasty
Category: Bronzes
Function: Container
Material: Minerals/Metals/
Description:
At the end of the 18th century, mechanical octave boxes with automatic mechanisms were very popular. This oval double side cover snuff box is made of multicolored golden carvings. The front cover is a clockwork box, and the bottom cover is a space for storing snuff. The transparent glass cover of the music box is opened and the ancient buildings are carved on both sides. The men and women at the picnic beside the lake are teasing the dogs. On one side, there are sheep and dogs lying down to rest. In the middle, there are swans, one behind the other, and there are keyholes. After turning the spring, you can see swans paddling leisurely on the lake. The distant view is carved into the sky. The box is surrounded by light carving scenery, and the rest is decorated with flowers and blue flowers; The bottom cover is also carved with men and women playing. The whole box is made of multicolored gold carvings. According to the stamp, the outer box was made by Joseph Etienne Blerzy, a goldsmith in Paris, France.