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Adrien Jean Maximilien Vachette — A circular snuffbox
Adrien Jean Maximilien Vachette

A circular snuffbox

1787

This circular snuffbox presents a sophisticated study in contrasts of material and craft. The lid and body are fashioned from rich, deep green malachite, its banded natural patterns visible across both the domed top and cylindrical sides. The malachite surfaces are carved in relief, with the lid featuring two facing profile heads rendered in the neoclassical style. A decorative gold mounting frames the piece, its finely chased borders and small hinges exemplifying Parisian luxury metalwork of the late 18th century. The jewel like object demonstrates the period's fascination with hardstone carving combined with precious metal mounting, creating an intimate treasure for the collector's pocket.

Medium
Gold and malachite
Dimensions
Location
David Zwirner 69th Street, New York, NY

Notes

From the exhibition 'Set in Stone' at David Zwirner 69th Street, NYC, May 12 to June 26, 2026, in collaboration with Galerie Kugel, Paris. Tombstone date: Paris, 1787-1788.

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About this work

Adrien Jean Maximilien Vachette, A circular snuffbox, 1787

This circular snuffbox presents a sophisticated study in contrasts of material and craft. The lid and body are fashioned from rich, deep green malachite, its banded natural patterns visible across both the domed top and cylindrical sides. The malachite surfaces are carved in relief, with the lid featuring two facing profile heads rendered in the neoclassical style. A decorative gold mounting frames the piece, its finely chased borders and small hinges exemplifying Parisian luxury metalwork of the late 18th century. The jewel like object demonstrates the period's fascination with hardstone carving combined with precious metal mounting, creating an intimate treasure for the collector's pocket.

Medium
Gold and malachite
Dimensions
2.9 x 7.9 x 7.9 cm
Year
1787
Seen at
Adler Beatty, New York, NY

Related themes

Gold, French, Precious Metal Mounting, Carved Stone, Fine Craftsmanship, Relief Carving, Snuffbox, Decorative Arts, Paris, Portrait Heads, Geometric Form, Symmetrical Design, Hardstone Carving, Green Stone, Malachite, Cabinet Object, Neoclassical, 18th Century, Miniature Sculpture, Luxury Goods