West German Silver-Plated Trinket or Compact Box with WMF Maker's Mark
Cigarette Case / Vanity Accessory / Decorative Object (Hollowware subcategory) · WMF (Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik), a prominent German manufacturer founded in 1853, globally renowned for its high-quality metalware, Art Nouveau (Jugendstil) designs, and silver-plated household goods
Pattern: Mid-Century Modern geometric utility line, produced during the post-WWII West German manufacturing boom
Type
Cigarette Case / Vanity Accessory / Decorative Object (Hollowware subcategory)
Maker
WMF (Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik), a prominent German manufacturer founded in 1853, globally renowned for its high-quality metalware, Art Nouveau (Jugendstil) designs, and silver-plated household goods
Material
Silver-plated base metal, specifically German silver or nickel brass alloy finished with a bright electroplated silver coating, commonly referred to as EPNS (Electro-Plated Nickel Silver)
Dimensions
Estimated compact dimensions of approximately 8 cm to 10 cm in length and width with a shallow depth, typical of pocket-sized vanity cases or cigarette boxes
Description
An elegant and functional mid-century silver-plated box originating from West Germany. Manufactured by the esteemed WMF company, the piece exhibits clean geometric lines, a mirror-bright finish, and precise industrial construction. The interior reveals standard mechanical assembly pins and circular housing stamps characteristic of mid-20th-century vanity cases. It serves as a wonderful collectible example of functional post-war European metal design.
Key Features
Clear WMF triangle hallmark, dual-language export stamping ('Made in W. Germany' / 'Fabriqué en RFA'), and crisp stepped geometric molding
Material & Composition
Silver-plated base metal, specifically German silver or nickel brass alloy finished with a bright electroplated silver coating, commonly referred to as EPNS (Electro-Plated Nickel Silver)
Finish & Decoration
High-gloss mirror polish with clean, geometric stepped borders, reflecting a utilitarian Mid-Century Modern aesthetic devoid of excessive ornamentation
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped with the classic WMF logo inside a triangle, alongside 'Made in W. Germany' and 'Fabriqué en RFA', indicating export-grade production from the Federal Republic of Germany
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured via precision press forming and die-striking with integrated hinge fittings, characteristic of industrial post-war European metalworking
Functional Features
Hinged lid mechanism designed for secure closure, likely intended for holding small personal items such as pills, stamps, or cigarettes
Handle & Grip Details
No external handles; features a smooth, flush geometric profile with stepped edge contours for easy manual opening
Craftsmanship Details
High industrial craftsmanship standard with sharp stamping definition, uniform electroplated coverage, and smoothly functioning mechanical hinges
Authentication Indicators
Authentic period markings include the distinct WMF maker's mark enclosed in a triangle alongside standard post-war geopolitical export designations
Origin & Manufacturing
Geislingen an der Steige, Baden-Württemberg, Germany, produced by WMF utilizing advanced post-war industrial stamping and plating technologies
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern Period (c. 1950-1970), indicated by the 'W. Germany' geographical marker designating the post-WWII division of Germany
Age Estimate
Circa 1950s to 1960s, determined by the 'Made in W. Germany' and French 'RFA' export stamps used primarily after the establishment of West Germany in 1949
Cultural Significance
Reflects the post-WWII economic recovery and industrial resurgence of West Germany, highlighting the era's appreciation for sleek, functional, mass-produced luxury goods
Condition Notes
Very Good vintage condition. The silver-plated surface shows minor microscopic hairline scratches typical of light handling and age, with no major plating loss, deep dings, or structural defects visible
Value Estimate
Estimated market value ranges between $30 to $100 USD depending on exact size, current preservation state, and collector demand for vintage WMF items
Care & Maintenance
Clean periodically with a soft microfiber cloth and specialized silver-plating polish. Avoid harsh abrasive cleaners or chemical dips that could strip the electroplated surface. Store in a dry environment away from high humidity
Similar Pieces
Similar silver-plated trinket boxes, compacts, and cigarette cases produced by European manufacturers like WMF, Kaysz, or Christofle during the 1950s and 1960s
Interesting Facts
WMF became the largest producer and exporter of household metalware in Germany during the 20th century, famously known for collaborating with renowned designers during both the Art Nouveau and Modernist eras