Description
TOBACCO BOX – ERA 1750 – 1775 – FREDERICK THE GREAT’S TIME
This is a highly unusual, detailed metal tobacco box from 1750 to 1775, during Frederick the Great’s (Friedrich der Große) reign. He was the first of the well-known Prussian kings, the man who set Prussia (later Germany) on its course toward a greater role in European politics.
The brass box measures 6 1/4″ x 1 3/4,” and weighs 6 ounces. The box is hinged.
The box’s top depicts the Prussian Army at battle. Part of the battlefield is labeled “Prussian Armee,” while the other section is labeled “Schwerin’s Armee.” It is all dated 6 May 1757. To the left is a description of the action in which the Prussian Army vanquished the Austrians. To the right, the King of Prussia and his (period) military commanders are listed.
The box’s bottom reveals a scene where mounted generals looking down at a battle in a valley. The date, 31 July 1760, and the battle’s name are mentioned. The wording on the top and bottom has faded somewhat from age. The box’s bottom half has some damage to one corner, where a 3/4″ portion of the metal trim is missing.
This is an amazing piece that depicts Germany’s military history of more than two-hundred-fifty-years ago.
