DR. JOHNSON'S SNUFF-BOX

(JOHNSON, Samuel). Rare late 18th century ivory snuff box in the form of a gloved hand, clenched to ward off the Evil Eye, with silver mounts engraved "Dr. Samuel Johnson, The Lexicographer 1770 – From a Friend".
Dr. Johnson's superstitious nature is well-known, and it is entirely plausible that a friend (whom we are unable to identify) would have conceived of this carved form as entirely appropriate to his friend's eccentric habits.
We have no reason to doubt the authenticity of this wonderful snuff-box, which was purchased from a reputable English antiques dealer in 1971 and remained in the hands of the buyer until we purchased it.