Victorian Era Enamel and Sterling Silver Cigarette or Card Case
Cigarette Case / Card Case · Unidentified European or British Silversmith (Likely late 19th-century Austro-Hungarian or Birmingham manufacture)
Pattern: Quilted Diamond Enamel Pattern with Rococo Scroll Clasp
Type
Cigarette Case / Card Case
Maker
Unidentified European or British Silversmith (Likely late 19th-century Austro-Hungarian or Birmingham manufacture)
Material
Sterling silver (.925) frame, clasp, and studs, combined with guilloché enameled metal body
Dimensions
Estimated length: 8.5 to 10 cm, width: 5 to 6 cm, depth: 1.5 to 2 cm; Estimated weight: 80 to 120 grams depending on internal framing and thickness
Description
An exquisite pocket-sized silver and enamel case, likely designed for cigarettes or calling cards. The exterior features a rich brown guilloché enamel finish arranged in a quilted diamond pattern. Each lattice intersection is punctuated by a tiny applied silver stud, lending a tailored, luxurious texture. A sophisticated, elaborately chased rococo-style silver clasp centers the piece, framing the push-release mechanism. The lid is further detailed with delicate engraved scroll borders along the upper edge, demonstrating exceptional craftsmanship and refined aesthetic appeal.
Key Features
Quilted diamond guilloché enamel body, applied silver studwork at grid intersections, highly ornate chased silver central clasp, and secure hinged enclosure
Material & Composition
Sterling silver (.925) frame, clasp, and studs, combined with guilloché enameled metal body
Finish & Decoration
Brown-toned translucent guilloché enamel over an engine-turned diamond lattice pattern, accented with applied silver studs at intersections, a highly ornate cast and chased rococo-style central clasp, and engraved linear borders along the lid
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in the provided view, but typically located on the interior bezel or rim denoting silver purity (.925, sterling, or regional equivalents such as the Austro-Hungarian toucan mark or British assay office marks)
Construction Details
Hinged box construction with a spring-loaded push-button or snap clasp, base frame formed from sheet metal with soldered hinges, engine-turned guilloché base under enamel, and applied cast silver decorative elements
Functional Features
Hinged lid with a secure snap closure mechanism, interior retaining straps or spring arms historically used to hold cigarettes or calling cards securely in place
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - Pocket-sized handheld container featuring textured quilted enamel panels and a raised decorative central clasp for tactile grip
Craftsmanship Details
Demonstrates advanced late 19th-century metalworking skills, combining machine engine-turning (guilloché), skilled glass enamel firing, hand-chasing of the applied clasp, and precise mechanical assembly of the hinge and bezel
Authentication Indicators
Authentic period construction indicated by the precision of the engine-turned guilloché under translucent enamel, the casting quality of the applied rococo clasp, and traditional hinge and bezel alignment. Physical hallmark inspection required for definitive purity confirmation
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely European, with strong stylistic indicators pointing toward Birmingham, UK, or Austro-Hungarian workshops renowned for fine enamel work
Era & Period
Late Victorian / Belle Époque (c. 1880–1910)
Age Estimate
Circa 1885–1905, based on the prevalent aesthetic of combined guilloché enamel and rococo revival mountings during the late 19th century
Cultural Significance
Reflects the refined social rituals and high-fashion accessories of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, marking an era where personal everyday items were transformed into miniature canvases for high art and precious metalwork
Condition Notes
Very Good vintage condition. The enamel appears intact without major chipping visible in the photograph, showing minor surface wear consistent with age and pocket use. Silver components exhibit light tarnish and standard patina
Value Estimate
Estimated market value ranges between $300 to $800 USD, heavily dependent on the presence of clear maker's marks, country of origin, and the pristine condition of the guilloché enamel
Care & Maintenance
Clean silver portions gently using a soft microfiber cloth and specialized silver polish, avoiding direct contact with the enamel surface. Store in a dry, tarnish-resistant pouch or lined box away from direct sunlight to protect the enamel color
Similar Pieces
Similar cigarette and card cases by makers such as Fabergé, Tiffany & Co., or Sampson Mordan, typically commanding higher values due to specific maker signatures
Interesting Facts
Guilloché enamel accessories became immensely popular among the European elite during the late Victorian and Edwardian eras, serving as fashionable status symbols for both men and women for carrying newly popularized manufactured cigarettes or social calling cards