Snuffbox engraved with sunburst and scrolls, France, Paris, 1753-54, Jean-François Breton, The Rosalinde and Arthur Gilbert Collection on loan to the Victoria and Albert Museum, London

Close-up and personal: Eighteenth-century gold boxes from the Rosalinde and Arthur Gilbert Collection

Tue 24 March 2015 - Sun 6 September 2015

Fitzwilliam Museum

Fashionable among both men and women, these exquisite and elegant containers were one of the most popular accessories in 18th century Europe. They were often used to hold snuff (a scented preparation of powdered tobacco) or sweetmeats. The most lavish and precious boxes were the choice present of royalty and exemplify court culture and fashion en miniature.

One of the finest collections of gold boxes today was assembled by Sir Arthur Gilbert (1913–2001) and his first wife, Rosalinde (1913–1995). With a background in fashion as London couturiers in the 1930s and 1940s the Gilberts had a passion for beauty created through excellent craftsmanship and design that is represented at its best in this collection. Presented here is a selection of nearly sixty boxes from their collection, including four iconic diamond-set boxes associated with Frederick the Great, King of Prussia (1712-1786).

Cost: Free