Who is the maker and what was it for?

[juantotree]

Hi

This is a silver mounted nut, approximately 6 x 6cms, it is marked under its hinged lid with a maker's mark only, similar to that of Isaac Davenport but not exactly the same. Does anybody have any idea who the maker is and what it may have been used for?

Many Thanks
Martin

[AG2012]

Hi,
At that dimensions it is a snuff box.
Regards

[juantotree]

Thank you for your response. If it was used as a snuff box, you would have to pour the snuff out as the opening in the lid is far to narrow to take a pinch with your fingers.

Martin

[AG2012]

Not necessarily pinched,compare with e.g Chinese snuff bottles.
The usual place for snuff was between two extensor tendons at the base of the thumb,thus the origin of the name anatomical snuff box.
Snuff was placed there either by two fingers (pinch), poured in or even a small spoon was used.
Regards

[juantotree]

Thank you AG2012, I think I am going to struggle identifying the maker, it is possibly provincial and also difficult to age, but it does have an early look about it.

Martin