A PAINTED ENAMEL SHELL-FORM SNUFF BOX AND A LADLEQIANLONG PERIOD (1736-1795)The snuff box is naturalistically formed in the shape of a lobed convex shell. The top of the flat cover is decorated with sprays of flowers, a fish, and a crab, the interior with flowers and finger citrons. The ridged and domed box is enameled on the exterior with alternating curvilinear bands of yellow and pink simulating the texture of the shell and is fitted with gilt metal mounts. The pointed, oval ladle is enameled on the exterior with a band of pendent grapes and peonies, the gently upcurved handle with peacock feathers and fitted with a gilt terminal in the shape of a peacock head. The interior is painted with a lively scene of shrimp swimming amidst water grasses.Snuff box: 2.7.8 in. (7.3 cm.) wideLadle: 4 in. (10 cm.) long