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Artisan Antiques has dated this piece to the 19th Century.
These modestly sized yet artistically teeming pieces are a perfect representation of some of the finest and ornate early Victorian silverware.
Bearing the hallmarks of Nathaniel Mills, unsurprisingly, this case is of the utmost intricacy and exemplary of the finest Victorian box craftsmanship.
Pulling on either end reveals the inner compartment in which several cheroots or smaller cigars can be held (x3 Montecristo No.5 or similar can be held within).
In spite of what could be a simple utilitarian object, this case has been made with utmost care, intricacy and embellishment. Its entirety has been meticulously hand-engraved with acanthus motifs & volute scrolls. The two ends meet precisely in the middle with the engravings joining perfectly and presenting a never-ending asymmetric foliate labyrinth.
Furthermore, what cannot be conveyed through photos is its weight, gauge and feel in hand - it has been crafted from an excellent gauge of silver and has a very sturdy and wonderful feel in hand, almost to the extent that despite it being hollow, it could be mistaken for a bar of silver.
Unlike some other Victorian silver cigar/cheroot cases (which are fairly scarce in their own right), this one stands as being further unique in terms of shape and construction. The case features an ellipse-like shape with the most wonderful curvature and feel in hand upon holding.
Its craftsmanship can be truly appreciated when considering this decoration has all been done by hand without a single slip; one can imagine the sheer focus and skill required to decorate such a challenging curved surface. Upon closer inspection, where the two ends meet, there is hardly a visible gap - a testament to the highest degree of craftsmanship and time-consuming care that has gone into making this piece.
Within the acanthus motifs, this particular case features 4 cartouches; two large ones with hunting scenes, one with a presentation engraving and one smaller one with a monogram (please do zoom in on the scenes to fully appreciate the finesse of the workmanship).
Whether it be a wonderful collectable object of vertu or a practical cigar case for the discerning individual, this stylish and exquisite case is bound to be a conversation starter and is the perfect accoutrement for the sophisticated collector. 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' and midsection of the case.
Please note: all images with other items are for display purposes only; this listing is for the title item only.
Size
Size (cm) L:12.5cm W:5.5cm H:2.8cm
Size (inches) L:4.92 H:2.16 H:1.10
Weight: 111 grams (3.56 Troy oz) total.
Condition
Excellent Condition - The cigar case is in excellent antique condition, with minimal damage or issues. It appears to have been looked after very well with little use and wear for its age. Some slight surface scratches, tiny dings to the corners, wear commensurate with age - the decoration remains very crisp.
We aim to overemphasise 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.
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Artisan Antiques has dated this piece to the 19th Century.
Artisan antiques based in london, brings to you a global selection of fine antique silverware.
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Antique Victorian Silver Cigar/cheroot Case Profusely Engraved - Nathaniel Mills 1840
