This box has been attributed to goldsmith Johann Christian Neuber (active 1762-1808). Though it is an unusual product for Neuber, it is similar to another documented example with a chimney sweep figure (see Kugel ed., Gold Jasper and Carnelian, Johanna Christian Neuber at the Saxon Court, 2012, cat. 26, p.137). The oval box is shaped from one piece of chalcedony. Some of the stones have been set with red and green tinted adhesives to create colourful effects, for example, the green grass.

Saxony was rich in minerals and hardstones, leading to a blossoming of lapidary (polished stone) work. The city of Dresden was home to a treasury which was later extended by Augustus the Strong, elector of Saxony and King of Poland (ruled 1694-1733). This famous Green Vault (as it was known) encouraged the production of luxury objects. It is said that chimney sweeps, such as the one depicted on this box, were widely considered a symbol of good luck.

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. Arthur recognised Neuber’s exquisite technical skill and acquired seven of his iconic snuffboxes in total.