Although snuffboxes were certainly among those items fashioned from the wood of the Boscobel oak, it would be mere supposition to suggest that this 17th century silver and treen box, right, offered by Dorking auctioneer P.F. Windibank (15% buyer's premium) on July 10 was made from its branches. Regardless, it is a rarity in today's market.
The oval box, 3 3/4in (9cm) wide and marked Mountfort to the hinged lid, is engraved with a bust portrait of Charles II in the tree with Cupid carrying crowns, a Latin inscription, and two figures on horseback riding below.
One of several fine lots in the sale consigned by a longstanding local client, and most likely a family piece, its fine condition encouraged half a dozen bidders to compete it well beyond its £600-1000 estimate. Simon Windibank held a substantial collector's bid on the book but it was beaten by a lady in the room at £5200.
