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Posted 2 years ago
Snuffcolle…
(1 item)
I'm an avid snuff box collector and I purchased this earthenware snuff jar, doubtless made for commercial shipping and storage, from an English antiques dealer recently. They thought it dated from the 1890s, based on the fact that Taddy & Co. produced a well known set of cigarette cards around that era; however, the font suggests to me a much earlier date, from sometime in the mid 18th c. to the early 19th. I discovered in internet researches that the company was in business from 1747 onwards. I wonder if any fellow tobacciana collectors out there may be able to help me determine the jar's age and value? It's in perfect condition with no chips or cracks, only missing its (I assume) cork stopper, and measures only 5 2/3" high and 2 3/4" across, suggesting it was indeed used for snuff. The transfer printed inscription reads: "TADDY & COMPY Wholesale manufacturers OF TOBACCO & SNUFF, for Exportation. 45 MINORIES. London."
Snuff BoxesInhaling snuff, or snuffing, as it is also called, was first witnessed by a…