Jewellery, Watches and Objects of Vertu

Royal interest: An 18th century circular papier mâché memorial snuff box and cover for Prince William, Duke of Cumberland, decorated with black japanning and oil paint, the cover hand painted in gilt with military trophy of arms and coronet above, with central cartouche reading ‘WILLIAM DUKE OF CUMBERLAND OBIIT 32 OCT 1765 ETAT 45’, the base painted in gilt with a scull, crossbones and coronet, diameter 8.8cm. £50-£80

Prince William, Duke of Cumberland (1721-165) was the third and youngest son of King George II and his wife Caroline of Ansbach, taking the title of Duke of Cumberland in 1726. He is best remembered for his role in suppressing the Jacobite Rebellion at the Battle of Culloden in 1746. He was often referred to by his nickname ‘Butcher Cumberland’, given to him by his political opponents.