Notes: Fine early Victorian sterling silver snuff box, with shaped serpentine body, extensive floral & foliate engraving, the lid with a large cartouche with engraved presentation text, and gilt interior, made by Edward Smith, Birmingham, 1843.
The inscription reads: “Presented / to / Mr Hugh Cameron / As a mark of respect / By the / Young Men in the Employment / Messrs J & W Campbell Co.” The firm of Messrs. J & W Campbell & Co (1817-1960’s) was, at this time, located on Cendleriggs St, Glasgow. This dates prior to the move into the iconic building on Ingram St. in 1856 where it would employ over 600 people. In 1922 it merged to become Campbells and Steward & McDonald, which was subsequently taken over by the House of Fraser during the 1960’s.
Dimensions: 3 ⅛” long x 2” wide x ⅝ +” high
Weight: 104.9 grams (3.3 ozt)
Markings: marked inside lid, [Victoria head duty mark], [Edward Smith ‘ES’ makers mark], [Lion Passant]; stamped inside base, “[Birmingham Anchor], [‘ES’ makers mark], [1843-44 ‘u’]
Condition: Antique, Very Good Condition. For Accuracy Only: there is light rubbing to the gilt interior, it has been left unpolished to preserve the current remaining gilt. The Exterior has a warm rich patina and clean engraving; the interior gilt wash remains very nice.
