Lot 800: Antique Spanish Colonial Style Shoe Stirrup Novelty Snuff Box
A nineteenth-century cast metal novelty snuff box or tobacco box, modelled after a Spanish colonial shoe stirrup or tapadero. The item features a cast body with a distinctive pointed toe and an integrated hinged lid at the throat. It is constructed from a copper alloy, likely brass, which was originally finished with silver plating. Significant wear to the plating is visible across the entire surface, exposing the underlying base metal. No manufacturer stamps, hallmarks, or maker marks were observed on the exterior or interior surfaces. Two adhesive labels are currently adhered to the lid: a white printed label numbered 16 and an orange handwritten label marked 8.00.
Condition report:
The box is in aged condition with a heavy patina and extensive surface tarnish. The silver plating exhibits significant loss, particularly on the toe, heel, and edges. The hinge is in good working order and the lid closes securely.
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