I'd think this shoe was carved just as a whimsy; there is no sign there was ever a top over the shallowly carved out recess, so I wouldn't think it was made for snuff. I do think it's pretty old though, and nice and folky, with sweet detailing for the seams, eye holes, and across the toe, a great heel, and a coat of varnish on the exterior. Surely one can never have too many old carved wooden objects, or shoes! 

5 1/8" l x 2 1/4" t x 1 5/16" w. Great condition, with a really nice feel to it;