c. 1820 Decorative Horn Snuff Box with a working Hinged Lid having Floral Design Engravings typical of the Pennsylvania area, with a lovely natural patina the handcrafted custom hinged Top Lid is fully functional, Choice Very Fine.
This impressive Custom Handcrafted Snuff Box that has an oval shape with flat ends measuring 3.25” long x 2” wide across x 1.0” deep. The body and lid pieces are made from a light yellow horn, while the lid liner and end pieces are a slightly darker rich brown horn. The lid and top pieces are engraved with matching floral designs, and the name “Ro. Fitch” is very faintly carved on the underside, likely the former owner. A thin separation in the horn at the right of the lid is apparently as it was made. Overall, a gorgeous unusual beautifully made snuff box held together with numerous tiny nails s shown. An excellent custom handcrafted artistic early American snuff box that has eye appeal for display.
Snuff-taking was popular among middle and upper class people in Britain and America from the 17th to the 20th century. The habit was traditionally seen as a sign of good manners and social status. Snuff boxes were traditionally made of wood or horn, like this one, but typically not so well made or ornately decorated. More expensive and luxurious materials such as gold, silver or ivory were also popular among the elite and wealthy partakers.

Although the use of snuff declined in popularity in the 20th century, snuff boxes remain sought-after collectable items among discerning knowledgeable collectors of antique and vintage items.