Fine 18th century gilt bronze and split agate box of good size. This outstanding box is in mint condition with the fabulous fire/mercury gilding in perfect condition and with no damage to the split agate. The two pieces of split agate are set into the lid and the base. The quality of the engraving is of the quality one would expect from a gold or silver box and is quite outstanding. The top border of the lid is decorated with fine floral engraving, polished scrolling design and fine hammered matting. The facing sides of the lid are decorated with eight scenes, all in naturalistic settings of houses ( western), dogs and birds all beautifully engraved. The base has six larger scenes, all oriental, of people in a boat, gardening, making tea, sitting smoking, chasing birds and sitting by a pagoda. The base rim is similarly decorated as the lid. The setting holding the agate is unusual using large and small wave cut-outs to hold the agate, each individually cut and never disturbed. The box has another gilt bronze lid inside that sits on inset gilt bronze suports and covers the interior. Austrian circa 1730-40. Property of a European Royal Family. 5.25 inches wide by 3 inches deep by 1.75 inches high ( 13.125 cm by 7.5 cm by 4.375 cm).