Two snuff boxes shaped like a pair of lady's boots in ebony and horn

Made:
1781-1860 in England
Two snuff boxes shaped like Two snuff boxes shaped like Foreground: A637590, Wooden snuff box, in the form of a shoe

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License this image for commercial use at Science and Society Picture Library

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Two snuff boxes shaped like
Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Two snuff boxes shaped like
Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Foreground: A637590, Wooden snuff box, in the form of a shoe
Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Two snuff boxes shaped like a pair of lady's boots in ebony and horn, English, 1781-1860

Snuff boxes exist in a huge variety of designs, often mimicking the shapes of other objects. Women’s shoes seem to have been a particular favourite. This may hint that the boxes were owned by women – taking snuff was a popular habit with both men and women.

Snuff is finely powdered tobacco which was snorted or rubbed on to the gums and well-liked for its aroma, taste and stimulating nicotine boost. It was also believed to ward off colds, be good for ear, nose and throat problems and stop snoring. (Shown here with two similar examples, A637480 and A637590).

Details

Category:
Smoking
Collection:
Sir Henry Wellcome's Museum Collection
Object Number:
A39529
Materials:
ebony, horn and buttons, brass
Measurements:
overall: 83 mm x 63 mm x 21 mm, .04kg
type:
snuff box
credit:
Wellcome Trust (Purchased from Stevens)