Images(9)

Tobacco Box, Lid & Tamping Disc

Date1780-1810

OriginEngland, Leeds (probably)

MediumPewter; paint

DimensionsOH: 4 5/16"; Diam (cover): 4 3/8"; Diam (base): 4 1/8"; Diam (tamping plate): 3 11/16"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1950-156,A-C

DescriptionTobacco box with low-domed cover and disc. Cylindrical box of cast lead with narrow reeded band at rim and 5 medallions in relief representing a sailing vessel (repeated), a shield with 3 stars in chief and fleece in base (repeated), and indistinct classical figure. Low-domed cover with leaves in relief and finial in form of head with close-fitting cap. Pewter disc with moldings and central knob which fits inside box. Box and cover have traces of red and gold paint. Cast relief arms of the City of Leeds and medallions of Bishop Blaise and a ship under sail.
Label TextThis is representative of a large group of tobacco jars that were cast in a soft metal with a substantial lead content. Its exterior retains traces of early red and ochre paint. The interior is fitted with a loose tamping plate with a small central knob. Bishop Blaise, the patron saint of wool combers, appears in one of the medallions, while others feature a sailing ship and the arms of the City of Leeds, in recognition of that city's prominence in the wool trade. The Leeds Pottery made creamware boxes with virtually identical decoration based on metal boxes that were locally produced in the 1780s and 1790s.
InscribedCast relief arms of the City of Leeds, Yorkshire, and medallions of Bishop Blaise and a ship under sail on face of body.
MarkingsNone
ProvenanceVendor: Avis & Rockwell Gardiner, Stamford, Connecticut.