Paper

Student Artwork Guide

Snuffbox

Name Class Date

Jean Formey, Snuffbox (1757), Metropolitan Museum of Art. Public domain.

The facts

Artist
Jean Formey allpaintingsstore.com/en/artists/jean-formey/
Artist’s dates
1728 – 1797
Painted
1757
Medium
Painting
Original size
4 x 8 cm
Movement
Rococo Light, playful, pastel-coloured pictures of leisure, made for private rooms rather than public halls.
Held at
Metropolitan Museum of Art allpaintingsstore.com/en/museums/metropolitan-museum-of-art-new-york/
Artistic style
Rococo
Notable elements or techniques
Gold trim, enamel decoration
Subject or theme
Snuffbox with fruit arrangement

In context

Snuffbox — Jean Formey

How big is it?

The original measures 4 × 8 cm (height × width), drawn here beside an adult of average height.

When was this painted?

  1. 1720
  2. 1730
  3. 1740
  4. 1750
  5. 1760
  6. 1770
  7. 1780
  8. 1790

Shaded: the lifetime of Jean Formey (1728–1797) ▲ this work, 1757

Colours

Measured from the image

    Main colour

    Celadon #b6b3b0

    Catalogued palette

    • #B6B3B0
    • #3C3836
    • #846A46
    • #9E896A
    Palette
    Neutrals The dominant colour family in the image.
    Main colour name
    Celadon
    Intensity
    Monochromatic How saturated and varied the colours are, from a single toned-down hue to many bright ones.
    Contrast
    Gentle How much the colours differ in lightness and saturation across the picture.
    Harmony
    Strong Color Unity How well the colours work together, from clashing to fully unified.
    Brightness
    Brilliant How light or dark the picture reads overall, from deep shadow to bright highlight.
    Saturation
    Muted How pure and strong the colours are, from near-grey to fully vivid.

    About this artwork

    Snuffbox — Jean Formey

    In eighteenth-century Europe, Paris led the production of high-quality luxury goods. Parisian goldsmiths made a wide range of small, personal articles such as snuffboxes; étuis to hold sealing wax, tweezers, or utensils for sewing; souvenirs, which contained thin ivory tablets for note taking; and shuttles for knotting lace. Gold snuffboxes and boxes decorated with portrait miniatures were prized and frequently given as royal gifts, often to ambassadors or members of the court in lieu of cash payments for their services. Coveted and admired, these boxes were produced from a variety of materials. The best were skillfully made of gold and embellished with diamonds, enameled decoration, lacquer, and other luxurious materials. By the middle of the century, the taking of snuff had become an entrenched social ritual, and the snuffbox, too, had become an important social prop. Snuffboxes were considered highly fashionable accessories, with some merchants advertising new boxes with each change of season. The popularity of snuffboxes extended to all levels of society, and for those who could not afford gold, boxes were produced in less expensive materials such as silver, tortoiseshell, porcelain, or domestically produced lacquer.

    Artist and museum

    Artist

    Jean Formey

    Born in Paris, France

    early life and career

    jean formey, a french artist born in paris in 1728, is renowned for his exquisite work as a master goldsmith and enameler. formey's early life is marked by his apprenticeship, which he completed before becoming a compagnon at the gobelins between 1741 and 1754. he officially became a master in paris on july 17, 1754, under the sponsorship of antoine-lazare clérin.

    artistic style and notable works

    formey's work is characterized by its high quality and attention to detail, making him highly sought after by collectors and museums worldwide. his expertise in goldsmithing led to his appointment as prime warden in 1778, a testament to his respected position within the goldsmiths' corporation.

    tabatière d'époque louis xv en or de quatre couleurs: a stunning example of formey's work, this oval-shaped snuff-box features panels of musical trophies on scalework ground, surrounded by laurel leaf borders. (view on AllPaintingsStore: [https://AllPaintingsStore.com/@/jean-formey](https://AllPaintingsStore.com/@/jean-formey))

    boîte à double ouverture en or de louis xv: this double-opening box, also attributed to formey, showcases his mastery of vari-colored gold. (view on AllPaintingsStore: /en/art/show/art-d3aujm-en/

    museums and collections featuring formey's work

    formey's pieces can be found in various museums, including the musée du petit palais (france), which houses an impressive collection of artworks from different periods. (discover more about musée du petit palais on AllPaintingsStore: [https://AllPaintingsStore.com/@@/a@d3aujm](https://AllPaintingsStore.com/@@/a@d3aujm))

    legacy and influence

    jean formey's legacy as a master goldsmith and enameler continues to inspire artists and collectors alike. his work, characterized by its exceptional quality and attention to detail, remains a significant part of france's rich artistic heritage.

    view more of jean formey's artworks on AllPaintingsStore: [https://AllPaintingsStore.com/@/jean-formey](https://AllPaintingsStore.com/@/jean-formey)

    explore the musée du petit palais collection on AllPaintingsStore: [https://AllPaintingsStore.com/@@/a@d3aujm](https://AllPaintingsStore.com/@@/a@d3aujm)

    conclusion

    jean formey's remarkable career as a master goldsmith and enameler has left an indelible mark on the world of art. through his exquisite pieces, he continues to captivate audiences, offering a glimpse into 18th century france's rich artistic landscape.

    Museum

    Metropolitan Museum of Art

    On show in new york, United States of America

    A Legacy Etched in Stone and Light: Exploring The Metropolitan Museum of Art

    The Metropolitan Museum of Art isn’t merely a repository of beautiful objects; it's a sprawling narrative of human creativity, a testament to our enduring impulse to shape, interpret, and express the world around us. Founded in 1870 by a group of visionary New Yorkers who believed art should be universally accessible—a radical notion at the time—The Met now stands as one of the largest and most comprehensive museums globally. Its Fifth Avenue façade beckons visitors into a realm spanning five millennia and countless cultures, offering an unparalleled journey through time where echoes of ancient civilizations resonate alongside the bold innovations of modern masters.

    A Monument to Grandeur: Architecture and Atmosphere

    To truly appreciate The Met is to understand its physical presence as integral to its identity. The primary building itself—a magnificent embodiment of Beaux-Arts style completed between 1902 and 1914—exudes an air of classical grandeur. Colossal columns frame the entrance, inviting visitors into soaring galleries bathed in natural light; a fitting stage for the masterpieces within. This monumental structure, deliberately designed as a homage to European palaces, speaks to the ambition and vision of its architects, creating a space that feels both imposing and welcoming. Yet, The Met’s architectural narrative doesn't end there. The juxtaposition with The Cloisters, a remarkable sanctuary located uptown in Fort Tryon Park, reveals the museum’s core mission: to present art within a context that enhances its meaning. While Fifth Avenue embodies scale and universality, The Cloisters offers an intimate serenity, transporting visitors to medieval Europe through reconstructed chapels and gardens—a deliberate contrast reflecting a profound understanding of how environment shapes perception and fosters deeper engagement with artistic expression.

    Echoes Through Time: Treasures Across Cultures

    Within the hallowed halls of The Met, one can almost feel the weight of centuries past. Ancient Echoes resonate powerfully; visitors are captivated by the imposing Assyrian reliefs, depicting scenes of royal power and divine ritual—intricate narratives carved into stone that transport us to a world of emperors and gods. These monumental panels, often adorned with vibrant colors remarkably preserved over millennia, offer a glimpse into the complex political and religious beliefs of ancient civilizations. Equally compelling are the Greek sculptures, embodying idealized form and proportion, offering timeless representations of beauty and human potential. The Parthenon Marbles, for example, stand as enduring symbols of classical artistry and democratic ideals.

    But The Met’s treasures extend far beyond the Western canon. Remarkable collections of Asian art—including exquisite Chinese ceramics, each piece a testament to centuries of craftsmanship, and intricate Japanese screens, meticulously painted with scenes of nature and mythology—sit alongside significant holdings in African, Oceanic, and American art. Consider, for instance, the delicate brushstrokes of a Ming dynasty vase, the vibrant colors of a Navajo textile, or the powerful symbolism embedded within an ancient Egyptian amulet—each a glimpse into the vast richness of human creativity across continents and time.

    Moments of Artistic Resonance: From Manet to Rembrandt and Beyond

    Throughout its history, The Met has hosted groundbreaking exhibitions that have reshaped our understanding of art history and culture. A visit wouldn’t be complete without experiencing Édouard Manet’s Boating, capturing leisure on the Seine with its serene Impressionist style—a pivotal work in the transition from realism to modernism. The painting, a vibrant depiction of Parisian life, invites viewers to contemplate the changing social landscape of the 19th century through its masterful use of light and color. Or contemplating Rembrandt's self-portrait from 1660, a poignant exploration of chiaroscuro revealing the artist’s introspection during a challenging period. The painting’s dramatic use of light and shadow creates a sense of psychological depth, inviting viewers to contemplate the complexities of human experience.

    Preserving Heritage, Embracing Innovation

    Recognizing the importance of accessibility, The Met has embraced innovative technologies to enhance the visitor experience – offering virtual tours, interactive mobile apps, and engaging educational programs. Initiatives like “Met Moments” foster a sense of community among art lovers worldwide, encouraging dialogue and shared interpretation. Furthermore, dedicated conservation laboratories safeguard artworks across its collection, ensuring their preservation for future generations. The museum’s commitment to both preserving the past and engaging with the present ensures that The Met will continue to be a vital center for artistic exploration and appreciation for centuries to come—a timeless sanctuary where creativity transcends boundaries and inspires awe.

    Where to read more

    Find this online

    QR code linking to the download page for Snuffbox

    allpaintingsstore.com/en/art/download/jean-formey-snuffbox-D2YQYX-en/

    Cite this artwork

    MLA
    Formey, Jean. Snuffbox. 1757, Metropolitan Museum of Art. https://allpaintingsstore.com/en/art/jean-formey-snuffbox-D2YQYX-en/
    APA
    Formey, Jean (1757). Snuffbox [Painting]. Metropolitan Museum of Art. https://allpaintingsstore.com/en/art/jean-formey-snuffbox-D2YQYX-en/
    Chicago
    Jean Formey. Snuffbox. 1757. Metropolitan Museum of Art. https://allpaintingsstore.com/en/art/jean-formey-snuffbox-D2YQYX-en/
    Harvard
    Formey, Jean (1757) Snuffbox. Metropolitan Museum of Art. Available at: https://allpaintingsstore.com/en/art/jean-formey-snuffbox-D2YQYX-en/

    Look closely

    Snuffbox — Jean Formey

    Look closely

    Answer in your own words. There are no wrong answers here — only answers you can explain.

    1. What catches your eye first, and why?
    2. Which colours or shapes create the mood — and what is that mood?
    3. Our catalogue files this work under: snuffbox, still life, luxury goods. Do you agree? What would you add, or take away?
    4. Rococo: Light, playful, pastel-coloured pictures of leisure, made for private rooms rather than public halls. Where can you see that in this work?
    5. Jean Formey was about 29 when this was made. What in it looks like the work of an artist at that stage?

    Your response

    Write a short paragraph about this artwork. Use the facts from the earlier parts of this guide, and your answers above.

    Art quiz

    Snuffbox — Jean Formey

    How well do you know this artwork?

    Tick one answer for each of the 5 questions below. Each has exactly one correct answer.

    1. 1. What type of luxury item is the artwork titled 'Snuffbox' depicting?

      • A A sewing kit
      • B A small container for holding snuff
      • C A note-taking souvenir
    2. 2. In what European city was the production of high-quality luxury goods, like those featured here, particularly prominent in the eighteenth century?

      • A London
      • B Paris
      • C Rome
    3. 3. According to the photo description, what materials are artistically arranged inside the snuffbox alongside a cup?

      • A Jewels and enamelwork
      • B Various fruits such as apples, oranges, and bananas
      • C Feathers and exotic woods
    4. 4. Jean Formey was renowned for his expertise in which two artistic fields?

      • A Painting and sculpture
      • B Goldsmithing and enameling
      • C Carving and painting miniatures
    5. 5. What was the social significance of owning a decorated snuffbox during this period?

      • A It was only used by royalty for ceremonial purposes.
      • B It became an important and highly fashionable social prop.
      • C Its value depended solely on the rarity of the wood it was made from.

    My score: ____ out of 5

    Answer key — for the teacher

    This starts a fresh printed page, so it can simply be left out of the copies.

    1A · 2A · 3A · 4A · 5A