18th-Century Roman Micromosaic Snuff Box – Doves of Pliny, Attributed to Circle of Giacomo Raffaelli c.1780-1800
SKU: MOSCH01
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This exquisite late 18th-century circular snuff box is set with a finely detailed Roman micromosaic depicting the Doves of Pliny, also known as the Capitoline Doves—a classical composition taken from the ancient mosaic at Hadrian’s Villa and widely admired during the Grand Tour era.
The image is composed of thousands of minute glass tesserae, cut from colored filati, allowing for exceptional precision and subtle shading. Unlike stone or enamel micromosaics, which rely on natural minerals or fused powders, glass filati enables the remarkable clarity and vibrancy seen here. The craftsmanship is consistent with the finest Roman ateliers of the period and strongly in the manner of Giacomo Raffaelli (1753–1836), the foremost master of the genre.
The box itself is formed of tortoiseshell with delicate gold piqué inlay and gilt metal mounts. A small historic crack is visible to the inner base (not affecting the lid or display), otherwise in very fine condition with the micromosaic completely intact.
Provenance: English Collection. Roman micromosaic workshop, in the manner of Giacomo Raffaelli.
- Width: 7.8 cm (3.07″)
- Height: 3 cm (1.18″)
- Depth: 7.8 cm (3.07″)
