Ruines In Italie: French Burl Wood Snuff box, c.1815.  This unusual hand carved burl wood snuffbox has carved Roman period ruins on the lid.  It was produced as a souvenir item, probably between 1805 and 1814 when the ‘Kingdom of Italy’ was ruled by Napoleon.  The box was purchased by a British citizen in Paris in 1815 and brought back to England; written in quill ink and fixed to the inner lid is label which reads: 1815 This box brought from Paris by Thom Brailly.  In very fine box in excellent condition and an authentic piece of history; 3 1/8 inches diameter.