I love a carved shoe, and especially a carved shoe shaped snuff box, but I look at a whole lot of them and mostly let them go. This one though, no way. I purchased it on Ebay from a seller who seemed to have come into a very good small collection of them, all fine antique examples--and this is the one I was determined to get. Based on the wood and the manner of the carving and that wonderful red paint, I believe this is American, early-mid 19th century. All original, down to the great crustiness around the brass buttons. Super handsome, not a bit fussy, of really nice scale too.
4 3/4" x 1 1/2" x 3" t. Beautiful antique condition, perfect patina, sound and sturdy, slide lid opens easily and closes flush and right.