An 18th century snuff rasp beautifully carved on the front with birds, lion and inscription.. On the back is a rasp/grater which has been replaced, and a hinged covered compartment to the base. The rolls of snuff would be grated and the snuff would be collected in the compartment.
Snuff rasps were used before powdered snuff was readily available. The rasp would be used to grate a piece of compressed cured tobacco.
A good example of a beautifully carved snuff rasp.