Antique Sterling Silver and Guilloché Enamel Cigarette or Card Case
Cigarette Case · Unknown Continental European or British Maker, likely late 19th or early 20th century, highly skilled in fine metalwork and guilloché enameling.
Pattern: Art Nouveau / Edwardian Geometric Diaper Pattern with Repoussé Cartouche
Type
Cigarette Case
Maker
Unknown Continental European or British Maker, likely late 19th or early 20th century, highly skilled in fine metalwork and guilloché enameling.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) with translucent enamel over machine-turned guilloché ground, and small inset gemstone or paste accent.
Dimensions
Estimated standard vanity case dimensions approximately 3.5 x 2.5 inches for a pocket-sized case, weight estimated around 80 to 120 grams depending on internal framing and thickness.
Description
This exquisite antique pocket case showcases a masterful combination of fine silversmithing and delicate enamelwork. The exterior features a sophisticated engine-turned guilloché background in a rich, warm tone, overlaid with a structural diamond lattice punctuated by polished silver beads. At the center rests a finely chased repoussé silver cartouche featuring elaborate organic scrolls and floral flourishes, complete with a central inset stone accent. The lid is secured by a finely articulated thumb clasp and framed by a delicate scalloped border, representing the height of Edwardian luxury accessories.
Key Features
Combination of translucent guilloché enamel, diamond lattice framework, prominent central repoussé floral cartouche, and an integrated ornate thumb clasp.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) with translucent enamel over machine-turned guilloché ground, and small inset gemstone or paste accent.
Finish & Decoration
Polished silver finish combined with intricate repoussé floral scrollwork, engine-turned guilloché enamel in a warm brownish-pink tone, diamond lattice framework with applied silver beads at intersections, and a scalloped border trim.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in the provided image fragment, typically found on the interior rim or bezel of the case indicating silver purity (.925 or continental equivalent) and maker's mark.
Construction Details
Hinged box construction with a secure thumbpiece clasp, die-struck or hand-assembled silver framework, engine-turned guilloché metal base plate beneath translucent enamel, and hand-chased decorative applied silver overlays.
Functional Features
Spring-loaded or friction-fit hinged lid with a prominent ornate thumb-release clasp designed for secure one-handed opening of cigarettes, calling cards, or small vanity items.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A for case items, but features an integrated ornate repoussé thumb latch designed for ergonomic grip and ease of opening.
Craftsmanship Details
Exceptional craftsmanship blending precise machine engine-turning (guilloché) with meticulous hand-chasing, repoussé relief work, and delicate enamel glazing, reflecting high-tier European guild standards of the early 20th century.
Authentication Indicators
Authentic period construction indicated by the crisp hand-chasing, traditional bezel and hinge integration, genuine guilloché technique underneath the enamel, and patination appropriate for early 20th-century silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely European origin, potentially British, Austrian, or German, utilizing traditional European silversmithing and enamel workshops famous for vanity and smoking accessories.
Era & Period
Edwardian Era / Art Nouveau Period (c. 1900-1915)
Age Estimate
Circa 1900-1910, based on the characteristic blend of Art Nouveau organic scroll motifs and geometric guilloché diamond patterns popular during the Edwardian period.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the elegance and refined social etiquette of the Edwardian period, where personal accessories were miniature canvases showcasing the owner's taste, wealth, and adherence to high fashion.
Condition Notes
Good antique condition. Surface shows minor age-appropriate wear, light tarnish on unpolished silver areas, and intact enamelwork with standard light surface micro-scratches consistent with age and careful handling.
Value Estimate
Estimated between $300 to $800 USD depending on the presence of maker's hallmarks, exact precious metal weight, condition of the enamel, and historical provenance.
Care & Maintenance
Clean only with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. Avoid commercial liquid silver dips or harsh abrasive polishes, as they can permanently damage or dissolve the delicate enamel and compromise inset stones. Store in a padded, tarnish-resistant pouch.
Similar Pieces
Similar vanity and cigarette cases produced by makers like Fabergé, Gorham, Tiffany & Co., or Sampson Mordan, featuring guilloché enamel and applied silver filigree or repoussé work.
Interesting Facts
Cases of this style were high-status fashion accessories during the late Victorian and Edwardian eras, frequently used by affluent patrons to carry calling cards, dance cards, or cigarettes as social smoking became increasingly fashionable among the elite.