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Antique 1800s Anti-Clerical Erotic Figural Snuff Spoon

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:225.00 USD Estimated At:500.00 - 770.00 USD
Antique 1800s Anti-Clerical Erotic Figural Snuff Spoon
This antique snuff spoon was made to mock the clergy of the Catholic Church. The clever design would have been considered humorous by some, and sacrilegious by others. It is probably French, circa 1810-1840. It is made of three contrasting pieces of horn, in dark brown and yellow tinted. The clerical figure stands with a pious, smiling face. The feet can be moved and a spoon and toothpick will fold out. If moved out only slightly and in the right position, they appear to resemble a male member sticking out of the robes. Even more shocking is the head, which when folded down is replaced by the head of a goat. A goat walking upright has long been symbolic of the devil. The dimensions, when all folded in, are 7/8 x 3 1/2 inches. Its condition is excellent for its age, and it functions smoothly. * This is a unique, finely crafted item that is sure to be a conversation piece.