Exceptional French 18K Gold-Mounted Opal Matrix Snuff Box, circa 1800

An exceptional French 18-karat gold-mounted opal matrix snuff box, circa 1800, formerly in the distinguished Hartman Collection.

Of elegant rectangular form with chamfered corners, this remarkable box is fashioned from beautifully figured natural opal matrix, displaying a rich chocolate-brown ground interspersed with intricate pale mineral inclusions and striking flashes of iridescent green, blue, orange, and red.

The exceptionally unusual stone creates a captivating natural composition, with vibrant flashes of precious opal appearing throughout the body, sides, and lid.

The box is further distinguished by its magnificent 18-karat gold mounts, exquisitely chased with continuous neoclassical foliate scrollwork, delicate beaded borders, and finely articulated geometric ornament. The front is centered by an elaborate scrolling foliate motif, demonstrating the refined craftsmanship characteristic of luxury French goldsmithing around 1800.

The harmonious combination of rare ornamental stone and richly worked gold reflects the sophisticated taste for precious hardstone objets de vertu among European aristocratic collectors during the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries.

Particularly noteworthy is the exceptional visual character of the opal matrix, whose natural inclusions and brilliant iridescence make this a highly distinctive example of antique hardstone craftsmanship.

Provenance: The Hartman Collection. Retaining the collection's inventory label to the underside of the lid.

An exquisite and highly collectible French objet de vertu, combining unusual mineralogical beauty, superb goldsmithing, and distinguished collection provenance.

1" high x 4" wide x 2" deep

Very good condition.