An early to mid-18th century tortoiseshell pique and gilt metal snuff box, French circa 1740 Of shaped rectangular form with canted corners, the lid with inset tortoiseshell panel pique inlaid with a flock of birds including a peacock, duck, herons and a parrot on a tree. The inside of lid with engraved intertwined monogram below a coronet. The base with lacquer panel to the inside and engraved strapwork the underside.  Length – 8.5 cm / 3.25 inches