Part of the McFerrin Fabergé Collection, this presentation box is on display at the Houston Museum of Natural Science this year.
Given in 1902 by Tsar Nichlas II to Leon Bourgeois, a French politican and statesman, it is made of gold and decorated with enamel and diamonds. It features the initials of Nicholas II on the cover. At that time, the Imperial Russian court was known for lavish gifts presented to foreign dignitaries visiting Russia. Bourgeois was one of 90 foreigners to receive a snuffbox with the emperor’s initials. It measures about four inches across.