American Art Deco Sterling Silver Cigarette Case by Napier
Cigarette Case / Personal Vanity Object · Napier Company (originally Bliss & Carpenter, f. 1875), North Attleboro, MA. Renowned for high-quality jewelry and silver accessories during the early 20th century.
Pattern: Streamline Moderne / Art Deco Geometric pattern, introduced circa 1925-1930.
Type
Cigarette Case / Personal Vanity Object
Maker
Napier Company (originally Bliss & Carpenter, f. 1875), North Attleboro, MA. Renowned for high-quality jewelry and silver accessories during the early 20th century.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity), indicated by the visible oxidized surface and typical construction for this maker. Total weight typically ranges 80-120 grams.
Dimensions
Standard pocket size: approximately 4 x 3 inches (10 x 7.5 cm). Estimated weight: 3-4 troy ounces.
Description
A classic example of American Art Deco functionalism, this sterling silver cigarette case by Napier exhibits the 'Streamline Moderne' style. Its clean lines and lack of traditional engraving reflect the era's fascination with speed and industrial progress. The surface shows a deep natural patina from age.
Key Features
Precision-engineered hidden hinge, vertical ribbed pattern, rectangular form with gently radiused corners, and the signature Napier industrial-quality clasp.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity), indicated by the visible oxidized surface and typical construction for this maker. Total weight typically ranges 80-120 grams.
Finish & Decoration
Satin or brushed finish with engine-turned geometric lines typical of the Art Deco period. Features a flat rectangular form with beveled edges and streamlined vertical ribbing.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually found on the interior rim: 'NAPIER' in block letters and 'STERLING'. May include a design number or 'PAT. PEND' stamp common for their mechanical hinges.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed and die-struck panels. Features a precision-fitted compression hinge and a thumb-push tension clasp.
Functional Features
Spring-loaded interior tension bar (missing or hidden in view) to hold cigarettes in place; manual snap-shut closure; curved 'body-conscious' profile.
Handle & Grip Details
Integrated thumb-piece on the front lip for easy opening. No separate handle, as this is a pocket-carried accessory.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality machine work; evidence of fine tolerances in the lid closure and the seamless integration of the hinge mechanism into the side panels.
Authentication Indicators
The thickness of the silver gauge, the specific style of the beveled edge, and the characteristic oxidation pattern are consistent with Napier's 1930s production.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States; North Attleboro, Massachusetts. Produced in a high-volume factory setting which prioritized precision and sleek finishes.
Era & Period
Art Deco / Jazz Age (1920-1940). Defined by its industrial, linear aesthetic and move away from Victorian ornamentation.
Age Estimate
Circa 1925-1935, based on the specific vertical line motif and the Napier marking style of that decade.
Cultural Significance
Represents the height of social smoking culture in the early 20th century, where pulling a sterling silver case from a tuxedo pocket was a definitive mark of status and urbanity.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Shows significant surface scratching, heavy tarnish/oxidation (sulfide deposits), and several deep strike marks on the front face. Requires professional cleaning to restore luster.
Value Estimate
$150 - $250 USD in current market, depending on weight and restoration of the surface finish.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver polish like Wright’s Silver Cream; avoid aggressive wire brushes. Use a soft microfiber cloth. Store in a Pacific Silvercloth bag to prevent further sulfide build-up.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. engine-turned cases (typically higher weight and cost) or Elgin American silver-plated cases (lighter and lack Sterling hallmark).
Interesting Facts
Napier transition from high-end silver to fashion jewelry during WWII, making their earlier solid sterling personal items highly collectible today as relics of the Prohibition era.