The Cleveland Museum of Art
Collection Online as of December 19, 2025
Powder Box (Poudrier)
1779–80
Location: Not on view
Did You Know?
Jean-Joseph Barrière received his designation of master goldsmith in 1763, a coveted title that required candidates to complete a lengthy apprenticeship followed by a test of skill.Description
In the 1700s ornately enameled boxes became a popular accessory in the French court. These boxes often held powdered tobacco, called snuff. However, this box, which is unhinged, likely held powder, rouge, or face cream. Pageantry and performance were important aspects of social interaction during this period. The extravagant designs and associated functions of these boxes communicated social and political status.- Mrs. Edward B. Greene, Cleveland, Ohio.
- The Cleveland Museum of Art (07/16/2016-11/06/2016); Elegance and Intrigue: French Society in 18th-century Prints and Drawings.
- {{cite web|title=Powder Box (Poudrier)|url=false|author=Jean-Joseph Barrière|year=1779–80|access-date=19 December 2025|publisher=Cleveland Museum of Art}}
Source URL:
https://www.clevelandart.org/art/1957.403