Box, Snuff

Round snuff box that appears to be made out of a synthetic material (celluloid) that is meant to imitate a mineral. The lid has a ballooning scene inset into the center. The scene represents the first public launch of a Montgolfier balloon from Annonay, France, on June 4, 1783. The crowd is shown, along with the open fire and two tall poles to hoist the balloon up for inflation. The scene appears to be painted on ivory, based on the grain in the material. The scene is framed in a copper alloy and under clear plastic.