This snuffbox demonstrates the considerable influence of Parisian goldsmiths across Europe. Although it was made by Andreas Almgren, a noted goldsmith in Stockholm, it is in the style of goldboxes made in Paris around the 1730s-1740s.

Almgen appears to have specialised in the use of basse taille enamels, a process which involves chasing or engraving metal in low relief and applying translucent enamels to the design to produce a richness and subtlety of tones. Little is known of Almgren's career apart from a few snuffboxes and his most celebrated creation, the crown of Louisa Ulrika of Sweden, made for her coronation in 1751.

Sir Arthur Gilbert and his wife Rosalinde formed one of the world’s great decorative art collections, including silver, mosaics, enamelled portrait miniatures and gold boxes. Arthur Gilbert donated his extraordinary collection to Britain in 1996.