A four-colour gold and enamel presentation snuff box, Hanau, circa 1840

rectangular with cut corners, the lid set with an ivory miniature portrait of Francis V, Duke of Modena, possibly after Luigi Manzini, in an oval frame, surrounded by coloured gold garlands of flowers, the waisted sides decorated with leaf borders, the engine-turned base with a geometrical pattern, traces of prestige marks including charge of Julien Alaterre, the left rim numbered: 3018

A princely Italian family

Generally good condition, some pins lacking, very minor knocks, hinge?
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Born in 1819, Francis V, son of Francis IV of Modena and Princess Maria Beatrice of Savoy, was the last reigning Duke of Modena before the duchy was incorporated into the Kingdom of Italy. In 1842, Francis V, who also was the godson of the former Holy Roman Emperor, Emperor I Franz of Austria, married Princess Adelgunde of Bavaria at the Munich Residence. Throughout his life he held several prestigious titles and was a Knight of the Austrian Order of the Golden Fleece. Having succeeded his father in 1846, Francis V had to flee the duchy of Modena in 1859 during its invasion by the French and Piedmontese armies. His protest against the order from King Victor Emanuel II of Sardinia - King of Italy since 1861 - to incorporate Modena into the new kingdom of Italy, were in vain and he lost his duchy. Francis V thus spent the rest of his life between the Palais Modena in Vienna and Wildenwart castle in Bavaria.