Antique 18th C Dutch Brass Tobacco Box Biblical Scenes 12 Apostles Engraved For Sale

Antique 18th Century Dutch Engraved Brass Tobacco Box – Biblical Scenes & Twelve Apostles

An exceptional antique Dutch engraved brass tobacco box (tabaksdoos), dating to the 18th century, featuring extensive hand-engraved figural and biblical decoration.

This is the classic elongated Dutch tobacco-box form of the 1700s, constructed in brass/copper alloy with clipped corners, molded borders and a long hinged lid. Both of the large exterior surfaces are extensively engraved with detailed multi-figure narrative scenes, surrounded by scrolling foliate ornament and engraved inscriptions.

Of particular interest are the narrow sides of the box, which are divided into a series of individual figural panels accompanied by engraved names/inscriptions. These appear to represent the Twelve Apostles, a decorative program documented on other surviving 18th-century Dutch tobacco boxes.

Comparable examples in museum and specialist collections combine large biblical scenes with individually engraved Apostles around the sides. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, for example, holds closely related 18th-century Dutch brass/copper tobacco boxes with biblical imagery and named Apostles.

The engraving on this example is particularly extensive, continuing across virtually every exterior surface. The individual figures retain considerable detail, including facial features, clothing and attributes, while the larger scenes incorporate architectural elements, figures and finely worked cross-hatched backgrounds.

Approximate measurements:

Length: 6 1/4 inches
Width: approximately 2 1/2 inches

The size is consistent with surviving Dutch tobacco boxes of this type. Documented 18th-century examples with biblical scenes and Apostles measure approximately 153–159 mm (roughly 6–6¼ inches) in length.

A wonderful example of 18th-century Dutch vernacular metalwork and tobacco culture, with especially desirable religious/figural engraving.

Please examine all photographs closely, as they are an important part of the description and show the extensive engraved decoration and condition in detail.

Good antique condition for an approximately 250-year-old utilitarian object, retaining extensive original engraved decoration and a rich, naturally aged surface.

The exterior displays expected age and use wear, including rubbing, scratches, oxidation, discoloration, darkening and scattered areas of verdigris. Despite the wear, the great majority of the figural engraving remains readily visible, with particularly good detail remaining in many of the figures and narrative scenes.

There are old soldered repairs/reinforcements, visible particularly along portions of the seams and within the interior. The interior shows substantially heavier oxidation, old solder, surface deposits, discoloration and general age-related wear. There are additional small dents, edge irregularities and areas of wear consistent with extensive historic use.

The long hinge remains intact and the box opens and closes as shown in the photographs.

The box has not been polished or aggressively cleaned, preserving its aged patina and the contrast within the engraved decoration.

No maker's mark has been located.

Please review all photographs carefully for the exact condition, construction, old repairs and surface appearance.