A THREE-COLOUR GOLD SNUFF BOX, JEAN FORMEY, PARIS, 1764/5 | A three-colour gold snuff box, Jean Formey, Paris, 1764/5

of elongated oval form, the lid chased with a central oval containing an urn, the sides and base with rosettes on a lobed and fluted ground within ribbon-bound laurel borders, maker's mark, charge and discharge marks of Jean-Jacques Prévost, contremarque of Julien Alaterre, date letter for Paris 1764/5

Very good condition, a few minute surface scratches, commensurate with age. Overall weight 156.2 g.
"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."

Following the completion of his apprenticeship, the celebrated gold box maker Jean Formey worked as compagnon at the Gobelins between 1741 and 1754. He became master in Paris on 17 July 1754, sponsored by Antoine Clérin, from the pont au Change where he remained for thirty years at the sign of the ville de Pontoise. His trade card advertises that: ‘Formey Md Orfévre Joyallier Bijoutier, Fabrique, Vend, Achete, & Troque toutes sortes de Joyalleries Bijouteries’. He was evidently both successful and respected, holding office in the Goldsmiths’ Corporation and becoming Prime Warden in 1778.