The is an antique Dutch tobacco box, 18th century, hand-engraved on both sides. There is a rich history of these, which in this period commonly portrayed romantic scenes or morality lessons of sorts. I've gone back and forth here, especially as I've found the text a challenge to translate. At first I read it as portraying two scenes of progressive romantic familiarity, in a sort of "inch by inch" way, first reaching for, and then ultimately snuggling up to one another. But then I realized that she looks the same on both sides but only one man has a beard, so perhaps on one side she's with her husband (keeping him at a distance) and the other, canoodling with someone else! Perhaps you can do better than I translating and interpreting the caption, but I'm happy to let it hold both possibilities at once...a perpetual choice between staying or straying!
4 5/16" x 2 1/2" x 11/16". Good antique condition, lid opens easily and closes tight. General wear and aging as there should be,some scattered small dings and spots as pictured. I have not touched the brass, which might polish up some.
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