19th Century – Patriotic Polish Snuff Box with Prince Poniatowski

A Biedermeier-era patriotic snuff box of rectangular form with rounded edges, featuring a decal image depicting the dramatic death of Prince Józef Poniatowski during the Battle of Nations at Leipzig in 1813.

The central figure of the composition is the prince, shown on a rearing horse in the moment of his attempted escape across the Elster River—a scene that became a lasting symbol of heroism and patriotism. Around him are fallen comrades, soldiers, and the chaos of battle, rendered with exceptional attention to detail and dynamic composition.

The death of Prince Poniatowski, Marshal of France and national hero of Poland, who died refusing to surrender to the enemy, became one of the most powerful patriotic myths of the 19th century, frequently represented in art and craft.