What is the history of Victorian silver gilt cigar cases?

During the Victorian era, the popularity of cigar smoking among gentlemen led to the creation of luxury personal accessories. Craftsmen produced protective cases from sterling silver, often applying a thin layer of gold, known as silver gilt or vermeil, to prevent tarnish and showcase wealth.

What materials and techniques were used to craft these cases?

These cases were typically constructed from solid sterling silver and coated in high-karat gold using mercury gilding or electroplating techniques. Decorative elements included precision engine turning (guilloche) and hand-engraved scrollwork or foliage motifs.

How can you identify authentic 1850 London silver pieces?

Authentic British silver from 1850 carries a set of official hallmarks stamped by the London Assay Office. These include the lion passant for sterling purity, the leopards head town mark, a specific date letter, the sovereigns head duty mark, and the makers initials.

How do you style an antique silver gilt cigar case in a modern interior?

An antique silver gilt case functions as a sophisticated decorative accent when displayed on a dark wood desk, a leather-bound tray, or open shelving within a study or library setting.

How should silver gilt tobacciana items be cleaned and preserved?

To preserve the gilded layer, clean softly using a dry, non-abrasive microfibre cloth. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners, silver polishes, or abrasive cloths, as these will gradually strip the gold layer from the underlying silver surface.

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Heavy Antique Victorian Sterling Silver Gilt Cigar/cheroot Case - London 1850

Name: Heavy Antique Victorian Sterling Silver Gilt Cigar/cheroot Case - London 1850
Brand: Antique
SKU: SA1078852
Price: 3500 GBP
Availability: InStock

19th century

For Sale by Artisan Antiques

Description

We are delighted to have acquired and offer this spectacular Victorian solid silver gilt cigar/cheroot case made in London in 1850 with marks for Thomas Edwards.

Whilst difficult to convey through photos, this box is made from an incredible gauge of thick silver and the weight in hand is very impressive indeed (204g). Such heft and tangible quality can be felt upon holding it in hand and due to its dimensions, it feels very robust and hefty.

In addition to its remarkable build, the embellishments and fully gilt (gold on top of solid silver) surface most certainly elevate its splendour to the highest degree. Eye-catching at first glance and an object of curiosity even to the untrained eye, such magnificence is certainly captivating and a conversation starter in its own right.

The case is immaculately decorated throughout with classical engine-turned motifs, accents of hand-engraved floral and foliate corners and a chased thumbpiece to aid with the opening of the lid.

The interior of the case is also fully gilt and due to its relatively slim profile, it could also be used to store ample amounts of cigarettes. (As cheroots and thinner gauge cigars were more prevalent in the Victorian era, please note that larger gauge cigars will not fit as the opening is approx 1.5cmx7 wide - recommended: 36 ring gauge and below).

Such quality, craftsmanship and intricacy culminate in an box that is outstanding whether be it from a collectable standpoint or as a practical cigar case for the discerning individual. Remarkably opulent and classically regal, this case is not only an ideal accompaniment for the sophisticated collector but a true object of vertu. Additionally, with some creative uses, it may also be used to hold some small sweets, objects or medicine.

A full set of English hallmarks is present on the inner 'lip' of the case and partial marks to the inside of the lid.

*Please note: all images with other items are for display purposes only, this listing is for the title item only.

SIZE

Size (cm) L:12.2cm W:7cm D:1.8cm

Size (inches) L:4.80 H:2.75 D:0.70

Weight: 204 grams (6.55 Troy oz) total.

CONDITION

Great Condition - The cigar case is in great antique condition, with no major damage or issues. The engine turning is crisp, a good closure to the lid and only minor surface wear commensurate with age. The base has a few small nicks as shown in the last image.

We aim to overemphasize and state these issues to avoid disappointment and thus please rest assured they are not significant nor affect the usage of the items.

Please refer to the photographs to examine the condition in further detail.

FREE SHIPPING

Artisan Antiques offers free global shipping with professional, secure and discreet packaging.

We will always ensure your items are packaged with the utmost care and see the delivery through to the end. In the very rare and unfortunate case of non-delivery/courier loss, you are fully covered with us and we will fully refund you.

*All parcels are insured - please rest assured all shipping liabilities other than import/customs duty are covered by Artisan Antiques.

*Colours of the product may slightly differ from the photos due to different computer screens & lighting conditions*

- Price negotiations may be possible under certain criteria, please contact us via telephone (07578761640) or email (info@artisanantiques.net) -

Declaration

Artisan Antiques has dated this Silver Gilt Cigar Case to the Victorian era.

Reference Numbers

Sellingantiques Reference

SA1078852

Dealers Notes

We strive to provide inimitable first-class service with your needs and satisfaction as our number one priority.

Description

We are delighted to have acquired and offer this spectacular Victorian solid silver gilt cigar/cheroot case made in London in 1850 with marks for Thomas Edwards.

“

Whilst difficult to convey through photos, this box is made from an incredible gauge of thick silver and the weight in hand is very impressive indeed (204g).

Artisan Antiques

Such heft and tangible quality can be felt upon holding it in hand and due to its dimensions, it feels very robust and hefty.

fig 1. An antique Victorian sterling silver gilt cigar case featuring fine engine-turned texturing, scroll engraving, and a central unengraved cartouche. — fig 1. Heavy Antique Victorian Sterling Silver Gilt Cigar/cheroot Case - London 1850

In addition to its remarkable build, the embellishments and fully gilt (gold on top of solid silver) surface most certainly elevate its splendour to the highest degree. Eye-catching at first glance and an object of curiosity even to the untrained eye, such magnificence is certainly captivating and a conversation starter in its own right.

fig 2. An antique Victorian sterling silver gilt cigar case featuring fine engine-turned texturing, scroll engraving, and a central unengraved cartouche. — fig 2. Heavy Antique Victorian Sterling Silver Gilt Cigar/cheroot Case - London 1850

The case is immaculately decorated throughout with classical engine-turned motifs, accents of hand-engraved floral and foliate corners and a chased thumbpiece to aid with the opening of the lid.

The interior of the case is also fully gilt and due to its relatively slim profile, it could also be used to store ample amounts of cigarettes. (As cheroots and thinner gauge cigars were more prevalent in the Victorian era, please note that larger gauge cigars will not fit as the opening is approx 1.5cmx7 wide - recommended: 36 ring gauge and below).

fig 3. An antique Victorian sterling silver gilt cigar case featuring fine engine-turned texturing, scroll engraving, and a central unengraved cartouche. — fig 3. Heavy Antique Victorian Sterling Silver Gilt Cigar/cheroot Case - London 1850

Such quality, craftsmanship and intricacy culminate in an box that is outstanding whether be it from a collectable standpoint or as a practical cigar case for the discerning individual. Remarkably opulent and classically regal, this case is not only an ideal accompaniment for the sophisticated collector but a true object of vertu. Additionally, with some creative uses, it may also be used to hold some small sweets, objects or medicine.

fig 4. An antique Victorian sterling silver gilt cigar case featuring fine engine-turned texturing, scroll engraving, and a central unengraved cartouche. — fig 4. Heavy Antique Victorian Sterling Silver Gilt Cigar/cheroot Case - London 1850

A full set of English hallmarks is present on the inner 'lip' of the case and partial marks to the inside of the lid.

Please note: all images with other items are for display purposes only, this listing is for the title item only.

fig 5. An antique Victorian sterling silver gilt cigar case featuring fine engine-turned texturing, scroll engraving, and a central unengraved cartouche. — fig 5. Heavy Antique Victorian Sterling Silver Gilt Cigar/cheroot Case - London 1850

SIZE

Size (cm) L:12.2cm W:7cm D:1.8cm

Size (inches) L:4.80 H:2.75 D:0.70

Weight: 204 grams (6.55 Troy oz) total.

CONDITION

Great Condition - The cigar case is in great antique condition, with no major damage or issues. The engine turning is crisp, a good closure to the lid and only minor surface wear commensurate with age. The base has a few small nicks as shown in the last image.

fig 6. An antique Victorian sterling silver gilt cigar case featuring fine engine-turned texturing, scroll engraving, and a central unengraved cartouche. — fig 6. Heavy Antique Victorian Sterling Silver Gilt Cigar/cheroot Case - London 1850

We aim to overemphasize and state these issues to avoid disappointment and thus please rest assured they are not significant nor affect the usage of the items.

Please refer to the photographs to examine the condition in further detail.

fig 7. An antique Victorian sterling silver gilt cigar case featuring fine engine-turned texturing, scroll engraving, and a central unengraved cartouche. — fig 7. Heavy Antique Victorian Sterling Silver Gilt Cigar/cheroot Case - London 1850

FREE SHIPPING

Artisan Antiques offers free global shipping with professional, secure and discreet packaging.

We will always ensure your items are packaged with the utmost care and see the delivery through to the end. In the very rare and unfortunate case of non-delivery/courier loss, you are fully covered with us and we will fully refund you.