Art Deco Sterling Silver and Black Lacquer Cigarette Case with Carved Jadeite Inset
Cigarette Case / Smoking Accessory · Likely European (French or German) or American, possibly Cartier or Dunhill. Makers such as Black, Starr & Frost or Enos Richardson were known for this Chinoiserie style in the 1920s.
Pattern: Chinoiserie Art Deco; a non-standard pattern utilizing custom lacquer and gemstone inlays typical of the 1925-1935 luxury market.
Type
Cigarette Case / Smoking Accessory
Maker
Likely European (French or German) or American, possibly Cartier or Dunhill. Makers such as Black, Starr & Frost or Enos Richardson were known for this Chinoiserie style in the 1920s.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) frame and interior, Black Enamel or Urushi Lacquer surface, Carved Green Jadeite or Nephrite Jade, and tiny Marcasite or Diamond accents in the bezel.
Dimensions
Standard pocket size: approximately 3.5 x 2.5 inches (9 x 6.5 cm); estimated weight 120-150 grams including the lacquer and stone.
Description
An exquisite example of Jazz Age luxury, this cigarette case features a stark jet-black lacquer body that serves as a dramatic backdrop for a vibrant green carved jadeite center. The jade is intricately worked with traditional Chinese-inspired motifs, reflecting the era's obsession with East Asian aesthetics. The sleek silver framework provides a clean architectural border, while the marcasite accents add a subtle, sophisticated shimmer. A true collector's piece representing the height of Roaring Twenties social elegance.
Key Features
Contrast between black lacquer and green jade; 'crazing' (crackle) pattern indicative of age; hand-carved organic stone motif against geometric silver geometry.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) frame and interior, Black Enamel or Urushi Lacquer surface, Carved Green Jadeite or Nephrite Jade, and tiny Marcasite or Diamond accents in the bezel.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish black lacquer with 'crazed' age effect; central oval jadeite plaque featuring hand-carved floral/avian motifs; silver bezel with four marcasite-set points; oxidized silver details.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Typically found on the interior lip or inner gold-washed tray; likely includes 'Sterling', '.925', or a European hallmark like the Boar's Head (Paris) or Crescent and Crown (Germany).
Construction Details
Silver box construction with applied lacquer panels; stone is claw-set or bezel-set into a center mount that is pinned through the case lid.
Functional Features
Spring-loaded hinge, push-button thumbpiece (concealed), and likely an internal elastic or hinged silver 'keeper' bar to hold cigarettes.
Handle & Grip Details
Smooth, rounded edges designed for pocket carry; ergonomic Art Deco 'streamline' silhouette.
Craftsmanship Details
Expert mounting of a fragile stone plaque; the lacquer application required multiple layers, each sanded down, a technique known as 'vernis martin' or true Urushi.
Authentication Indicators
The specific type of surface cracking in the lacquer is difficult to replicate in modern plastics; the carving style of the jade is consistent with early 20th-century imports.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in Paris, France (the center of high-jewelry lacquer work) or Newark/New York City, USA.
Era & Period
Art Deco (1920-1935); characterized by the contrast of black and green (Jade) and the high-society fascination with Orientalism.
Age Estimate
Circa 1925-1930 based on the crazing pattern of the lacquer and the style of the jade carving.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Chinoiserie' movement within Art Deco, where Western designers integrated authentic Asian materials like jade and lacquer into modern functional objects.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. The black lacquer displays significant 'crazing' or age-cracking throughout, which is common for natural lacquer. The jade appears intact, but the silver frame shows minor oxidation and surface wear.
Value Estimate
$400 - $1,200 depending on the confirmed maker and the state of the interior; higher if attributed to a major house like Cartier.
Care & Maintenance
Do not use silver dips or harsh chemicals, as they will destroy the lacquer. Clean only with a soft, damp cloth. Store in a climate-controlled environment to prevent further lacquer contraction.
Similar Pieces
Dunhill 'Laque de Chine' cases; Cartier enamelled vanity boxes. Modern reproductions exist but lack the depth of natural lacquer and genuine stone carving.
Interesting Facts
Items like this were status symbols during the Prohibition era, often paired with matching lighters or vanity cases. The transition from 'tobacco jars' to 'pocket cases' reflected the mobile lifestyle of the new 'Flapper' generation.