Description

This is a truly delightful work of art as shown in the images provided.

 

The amount of work on it is amazing!

 

In over 30 years dealing in antiques we have never come across another Iraqi niello silver snuff box like this one!

 

We have seen many bracelets, napkin rings, cufflinks, etc but not a snuff box!

 

It has some lovely niello work on it and it is the best quality that we have seen: absolutely amazing amount of detail.

 

The lid has been made to have a slight dome to it and it has been delightfully detailed with a checkered pattern around a central circular section containing a name written in Arabic/Farsi. Possibly reads as “Shawal Muktar”.

 

The front section depicts a boat sailing (Tigris or Euphrates) past a mosque surrounded by palm trees. The right side panel has a wonderful depiction of the ruins of the ancient city of Ctesiphon which is near the River Tigris. 

 

The left side panel has three boats with their sails fully displayed.

The back panel has one sailing boat and some palm trees.

 

The bottom is plain as shown.

 

 

This type of art was bought back by mainly British soldiers posted to Iraq during and after World War One. They were sent back or brought back to be given to wives as gifts and hence they are known as “sweetheart” jewellery.

 

In amazing condition with just some minor tarnish that can be polished off.

There are some minor ‘bumps’ and scratches.

Please note that the lid closes tight as shown but sometimes it may not fully close as there is some minor ‘play’ in the hinge. If you tap the lid gently, it will fully close as shown in the images.

 

It measures 6cm x 4cm x 2.5cm and weighs a solid 57.5g.

 

Please have a look at my other rare & unusual antiques.

 

Free fully insured UK postage is included: non UK customers please request a shipping quote.

TERMS & CONDITIONS OF SALE

All items are guaranteed genuine and as described.

A Certificate of Authenticity is provided on request.

Payments must be made in UK GBP£Sterling unless otherwise agreed.

We are not responsible for any import taxes, fees and charges collected in your country.

Please contact us before making any returns so we can issue a return order number.

Returns can only be made if a written statement from a national museum or international auction house provides evidence that an item is not as described.
Please note that any returns will be subject to a 10% return fee to cover any costs incurred.