St Petersburg, built on a low and marshy site, too close to the border of the Russian Empire, whose construction cost thousands of lives, embodied the daring dream of Peter I and his strong autocratic will. The famous snuff-box with the representation of the Sts Peter and Paul Fortress and frigates lying at anchor used to belong to the Emperor who always took it with him wherever he was going. The present box fashioned by modern jewelers is designed in the tradition of the early 18th century. This copy of the celebrated masterpiece held in the Golden Rooms of the State Hermitage is a unique souvenir, a memento of one's visit to Russia.

Silver; gilding, engraving and enamel.
3 1/8 x 2 3/4 in. (8 x 7 cm),
height 3/4 in. (1.8 cm).