Small box with miniature, XIX century.

Small box with miniature, XIX century.
"Lady".
Jewel box in tortoiseshell and gold and enamel mount with lady portrait on the lid.
Measurements: 3 x 8 cm.
This type of work became widespread during the nineteenth century, probably to keep snuff type snuff. The tobacco spread among the upper classes as a medicine for the most diverse affections: asthma, throat affections or the evil eye. When it became a fashion, small containers were created and were the object of profuse ornamentation, becoming, in some cases, true works of art.