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Rare Mid-18th Century German/Prussian Antique Brass Tobacco Snuff Box Commemorating Frederick II Of Prussia & His Military Triumphs
Rare Mid-18th Century German/Prussian Antique Brass Tobacco Snuff Box Commemorating Frederick II Of Prussia & His Military Triumphs

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An 18th Century antique brass snuffbox commemorating Frederick II and his military victories during the Seven Years' War (1756-1763).
This box is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, decorated with a detailed embossed relief of the Monarch himself (he was also known as Frederick the Great) and verso, battle scenes depict his military triumphs with Latin inscriptions.
About Frederick II:
Frederick II of Prussia, also known as Frederick the Great, was one of the most influential monarchs in European history. Born on January 24, 1712, in Berlin, he ruled Prussia from 1740 until his death in 1786.
Frederick was known for his military prowess and strategic acumen, leading Prussia through multiple wars, including the Silesian Wars and the Seven Years' War. His military tactics and reforms transformed Prussia into a major European power.
Beyond his military achievements, Frederick was a patron of the arts and an advocate of the Enlightenment. He corresponded with prominent intellectuals like Voltaire and implemented various domestic reforms, including modernizing the bureaucracy, promoting religious tolerance, and improving the justice system.
Frederick's reign significantly expanded Prussian territories and solidified its status as a formidable military and political force in Europe. He is often remembered as a philosopher-king who balanced his military ambitions with a commitment to cultural and intellectual pursuits.
Further information about this box:
The front is embossed with a full-length figure of the monarch. A wreath of laurel leaves is held above his head, presumably presented by God given a hand has appeared from a cloud and holds the leaf in recognition of "His Divine Right", where he authoirty is appointed by God and not the people.
At the base, below his feet, a latin inscription states "Fridericus Magnus Borussorum Rex".
Verso, the snuffbox is richly decorated with embossed witj shields depicting various battles won by Frederick II. These shields, each with the name of the battle, illustrate the Prussian king's key victories. Ornamental motifs around the shields add a touch of sophistication and highlight the skill of the craftsmen of the time.
Whilst worn, the following richly embossed inscriptions and images can still be made out:
Top -"TRIUMPH FRID. RICI MAXIMI"
Translation: "Frederick's Greatest Triumphs"
Names of the Engraved Battles:
Molwitz - First battle where Frederick II demonstrated his military skills.
Chotusitz - Strategic victory for Prussia during the War of the Austrian Succession.
Hohenfriedberg - One of Frederick II's most famous victories, marking Prussian supremacy.
Soor - Prussian triumph against Austrian forces.
Kesselsdorf - Decisive victory securing Prussian control of Saxony.
Lobositz - First battle of the Seven Years' War.
Prague - Major battle during the Seven Years' War.
Kolin - One of the few Prussian defeats during the Seven Years' War.
The lid opens to reveal an interior void of any fittings. The internal lid surface bears an inscribed hand written note which is very difficult to read. The date of this appears to be "1768."
Provenance - Acquired from a private Spanish collection.
Condition - Please refer to the images. There is surface wear commensurate with age. A further detailed condition is available upon request.
Size - Length 16.2 cm x Width 4.6 cm x Height 2.7 cm (6 1/4" x 1 7/8" x 1 1/8")
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