Snuff Boxes in Museums Victoria's Collection

Museums Victoria has a selection of snuff boxes in its History and Technology collection.
Each tells a different story and provides a snapshot into a particular time and place in Victorian history.

Snuff boxes are small, often decorative containers that were originally used to carry snuff, a form of finely ground or powdered tobacco. Dry snuff was inhaled or snorted through the nose and provided the user with an instant 'hit' of nicotine, like smoking cigarettes. Snuff was used by European aristocracy and to have it in one's possession was often considered a sign of wealth and status.

First appearing as early as the 16th century, snuff boxes were most popular in Europe from the 17th to the 19th centuries. As well as being a fashionable accessory, they were also a popular keepsake and often presented as gifts and awards. The boxes were sometimes used to carry other small delights such as scented flowers or sweets.

Snuff boxes were made from a variety of materials such as precious metals and stones, carved wood and bone, delicate glass, enamels and lacquers. The boxes could be engraved with messages or motifs, painted with miniature landscapes, still-life scenes or portraits.

References:

Gold boxes · VA (vam.ac.uk) website accessed August 2023.
THE HISTORY OF SNUFF BOTTLES AND SNUFF - International Chinese Snuff Bottle Society website accessed July 2023.