Image of Gallery in South Kensington
On display at V&A South Kensington
Metalware, Room 116, The Belinda Gentle Gallery

Tobacco Box

ca. 1775 (made)
Artist/Maker
Place of origin

By the close of the 18th century, the habit of smoking tobacco was well established in England. Smoking accessories such as tobacco boxes made popular gifts. The arms of the City of York on this box suggest it was given to Charles Moss for service to the city.


Object details

Categories
Object type
Materials and techniques
Raised brass, with copper case moulding
Brief description
Brass, England, ca.1775
Physical description
Inscribed 'CHARLES MOSS YORK 1775' with the city arms
Dimensions
  • Height: 11cm
  • Length: 18.1cm
  • Depth: 10.5cm
Marks and inscriptions
  • 'CHARLES MOSS YORK 1775' (Inscribed)
  • Arms of the city of York. (Inscribed)
Credit line
Bequeathed by Ethel Gurney
Summary
By the close of the 18th century, the habit of smoking tobacco was well established in England. Smoking accessories such as tobacco boxes made popular gifts. The arms of the City of York on this box suggest it was given to Charles Moss for service to the city.
Collection
Accession number
M.143-1939

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Record createdDecember 16, 2004
Record URL
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