Antique Victorian Faux Tortoiseshell Snuff Box. Small, rectangular tortoiseshell trinket box featuring an inset top lid decorated with an intricately carved white floral and bird relief.

Size: 1 1/4 x 3 x 2 1/4 in.

Faux tortoiseshell snuff boxes are decorative containers designed to mimic the luxurious appearance of genuine tortoiseshell while avoiding the use of endangered turtle products. Popular from the 18th century onward, these boxes were typically made from materials such as celluloid, horn, or lacquered wood, skillfully patterned and polished to replicate the warm, mottled translucence of real tortoiseshell. Like authentic snuff boxes, they were small, portable, and often intricately ornamented with gilt mounts, enamel, or carved designs, serving as both personal accessories and status symbols. Faux tortoiseshell allowed artisans and collectors to enjoy the elegance and sophistication associated with traditional tortoiseshell objects while offering a more affordable and ethically acceptable alternative.

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