3. Powdered tobacco introduced new social rituals and a new art form
Throughout the 17th century, the use of snuff became an approved social ritual. Even the ladies, taking their cue from the by then dead Catherine de Medici, commonly used snuff. The pretense of its medicinal value waned during the decades, replaced by its indication of social standing. It was held in high esteem by the nobility, and thus gained favor from those wishing to emulate the lords and ladies of the ruling classes. The practice led to the creation of a new fashion accessory for well-turned-out ladies and gentlemen. It was called the snuff box. By the mid-17th century snuff boxes appeared in both a large size, offered a table for communal use, and in small, personal boxes which the snuff user carried on the person. They came in varied shapes, made of diverse materials. The best silver boxes came from Sheffield.
Many were ornate, covered with complex etchings and inlays. French snuffboxes, called tabatieres, often were encrusted with gems. Many land owners had their crests or coats of arms carved into the lid of their snuffboxes. The boxes were painstakingly crafted by hand, usually by jewelers or their apprentices, and the best boxes were so designated because they kept their contents sealed from the air. Exposure to air caused the snuff to absorb moisture, rendering it distasteful to the user. Snuff was taken from the pox in a pinch, sniffed, and followed with a large, equally flamboyant handkerchief. The offering and taking of snuff became a social ritual, akin to offering a toast. It remained so well into the early 20th century. Today, many antique snuff boxes are highly desired collectibles, while many others are in museums around the world.