A JEWELLED GOLD ROYAL PRESENTATION SNUFF BOX, LOUIS FRANÇOIS TRONQUOY, PARIS, CIRCA 1840, RETAILED BY JEAN-BENOÎT MARTIAL BERNARD |

rectangular, the lid applied with the diamond-set cipher of Louis Philippe, King of the French, below a royal crown, surrounded by chased floral and scrolling foliage on a sablé ground, the slightly baluster sides and base similarly decorated around engine-turning, maker's mark, the front rim inscribed: Mal Bernard Joaillier du Roi et des Affaires Etrangères, the left rim inscribed with retailer's number: 915, post-1838 French control mark

Very good condition
"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."

In 1824 the retailer Jean-Benoit-Martial Bernard (1784-1846) became the partner of Henry Gibert, with whom he had worked since 1812. Two years later he set up in business on his own account at rue de la Paix, no. 1. He was appointed Joaillier de la Maison du Roi, working for all the royal family, and also acted as fournisseur du Ministère des Affaires Etrangères. This last was an important position as he was commissioned to produce all the official presents, snuff boxes, rings, pencils, tie pins and decorations, given to ambassadors and illustrious visitors to the Court.