Up for sale is a highly rare and authentic French late 18th-century papier-mâché circular snuff box (circa 1790–1800, Revolutionary / Directoire period).

The lid features a fascinating hand-colored political or theatrical satirical scene depicting a man lounging comfortably on a canopied throne atop a stepped platform while holding a long string, guarded by a soldier holding a pike 

Inscription Decipherment: A final, precise paleographic reading of the period French script in images  reveals the exact popular slang of the Revolutionary era: "cre coquin comme on enfonce la dedans" (short for "Sacré coquin, comme on s'enfonce là-dedans!"). It translates to: "What a rascal, look how he slips/embeds himself in there!". This double-entendre perfectly captures the bitter, theatrical street humor of the 1790s, mocking the new political opportunists swiftly taking over the luxurious seats of power.

• Condition: Beautiful, untouched honest antique condition. The lacquered surface has a spectacular deep amber patina. Shows normal edge wear and minor chipping consistent with a 220+ year-old pocket object . The interior retains two vintage collector/inventory labels .

• Dimensions: 9 cm x 2 cm

A museum-worthy piece for collectors of French Revolution memorabilia, antique snuff boxes, or early European caricature art. Worldwide tracked shipping.