Snuff Box with Catherine II Imperial Monogram

This bombé box illustrates the survival of the Rococo style in Russia in the late 18th century. Its borders are worked in repoussé with "C" and "S" scrolls. Both the box's sides and base are decorated in niello with scenes of nymphs and cupids in gardens over an engine-turned ground in scallop patterns. Within a raised cartouche on the lid there appears the crowned cipher of Catherine II (reigned: 1762-1796), enclosed by garlands painted in gold over green enamel.