French Art Deco Sterling Silver Curved Cigarette Case
Cigarette Case / Tobacciana · Likely French Provincial or Parisian silversmith; evidenced by the hallmark placement and the 'leboncoin' platform indicator of French origin. The form suggests a commercial high-end workshop active in the early 20th century.
Pattern: Streamline Art Deco Curved Pattern, typical of the 1920s-1930s focused on ergonomic pocket-wear rather than a named dinnerware pattern.
Type
Cigarette Case / Tobacciana
Maker
Likely French Provincial or Parisian silversmith; evidenced by the hallmark placement and the 'leboncoin' platform indicator of French origin. The form suggests a commercial high-end workshop active in the early 20th century.
Material
Sterling Silver (Minimum .800 or .925 purity typical of French standards); silver-toned interior with original elasticated fabric retaining bands.
Dimensions
Estimated 8.5 cm x 10 cm; weight approximately 80-120 grams. The curved profile is designed for portability.
Description
An elegant and minimalist French silver cigarette case from the Art Deco period. The piece features a distinct ergonomic curve designed to hug the wearer's body. The interior remains bright and well-preserved, featuring the original retaining straps which are an uncommon survival. Its understated luxury represents the sophistication of early 20th-century smoking culture.
Key Features
Distinctive 'body-conscious' curve; minimalist un-engraved surface suitable for personalized monogramming; original fabric components; French hallmark placement.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (Minimum .800 or .925 purity typical of French standards); silver-toned interior with original elasticated fabric retaining bands.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish interior with a curved 'body-conscious' exterior design intended to fit comfortably in a gentleman's breast or trouser pocket. Smooth, unadorned aesthetic emphasizing the quality of the metal and sleek geometry.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Small hallmark visible on the upper left interior rim, likely a French Minerva head (.950 or .800) or a maker's lozenge. The 'leboncoin' watermark suggests a French provenance where such small strikes on the rim are standard.
Construction Details
Two-part hinged construction. Machine-pressed sheets for uniform thickness, finished with hand-soldered hinge tubes and a hand-fitted thumb-clasp mechanism.
Functional Features
Spring-loaded button release, integrated five-barrel hinge, and internal strap anchors for elastic bands to hold cigarettes in place despite the curved profile.
Handle & Grip Details
Simple low-profile thumb piece for opening; no external handle as it is an accessory meant for pocket storage.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality fit and finish. The seamless alignment of the two halves when closed indicates superior precision in the manufacture of the hinge and rim.
Authentication Indicators
Consistency of the hinge construction with 1930s European standards; accurate placement of the 'poinçon' (hallmark) on the frame; period-correct elastic material and anchor points.
Origin & Manufacturing
France, likely Paris or a major regional center. French cigarette cases of this era are renowned for their 'concave' or 'curved' architecture to prevent bulk in tailored suits.
Era & Period
Art Deco (1920-1940); noted for its focus on aerodynamic curves, simplicity, and functional elegance characteristic of Jazz Age accessories.
Age Estimate
Circa 1925-1935. The combination of the clasp style and the transition from ornate Victorian cases to sleek minimalist Deco styles supports this dating.
Cultural Significance
During the 1920s and 30s, smoking was a highly ritualized social activity. A fine silver case was a status symbol, often gifted for weddings or military commissions, reflecting the owner's taste and wealth.
Condition Notes
Good antique condition. Visible tarnish inside the rims. Significant wear and loss of elasticity to the fabric straps. Minor surface scratches consistent with pocket use. Structure appears straight and hinge sounds firm.
Value Estimate
$150 - $350 USD. Value is driven by silver weight, the popularity of the Art Deco era, and the lack of a personal monogram which increases resale appeal.
Care & Maintenance
Polish with a high-quality paste like Wright's Silver Cream. Avoid submersing in water due to the internal fabric straps. Use a soft microfiber cloth for the mirror-polished interior.
Similar Pieces
English Sterling cases (often flatter with engine-turned patterns) and German 800 silver cases (often featuring gold wash interiors and more rigid clasps).
Interesting Facts
The curved cigarette case was often nicknamed a 'concave case.' It was considered a peak of sartorial elegance because it did not disrupt the clean lines of a bespoke Savile Row or Parisian suit.