British Sterling Silver Cigarette Case with Original Enamel Horse, 1890s

Details

Description

A refined and highly decorative British sterling silver cigarette case, hallmarked Birmingham 1917, with an impressive original enamel panel depicting … Read more A refined and highly decorative British sterling silver cigarette case, hallmarked Birmingham 1917, with an impressive original enamel panel depicting a galloping bay horse in a gently rolling English landscape. The image is unusually successful: the horse is painted with movement, balance, and confidence, and the surrounding landscape of fencing, trees, and open fields gives the panel a calm but lively atmosphere. It reads less as simple ornament and more as a true miniature picture set into silver.

The case itself is substantial and beautifully made. Its cut-cornered rectangular form, engine-turned reverse, and gilt interior place it firmly within the finest tradition of early twentieth-century British silverwork. The object has real presence in the hand, with a pleasing weight of 229.56 grams, and the proportions allow it to function equally well as a cigarette case, card case, or elegant desk object.

What distinguishes this example from many enamelled cases on the market is that the enamel appears to be original to the piece rather than a later embellishment. The panel is correctly integrated into the silver frame, flush and convincing, with no visible evidence of later mounting or secondary work. UV examination revealed no signs of later restoration materials or adhesive intervention.

Condition is outstanding. The enamel is free from cracks and chips, with vivid colour and very good surface preservation. The silver body shows no dents or distortion, the gilded interior remains attractive, and the clasp works as it should. Altogether, it is an unusually well-preserved example.

This is the sort of object that works on several levels at once: as British wartime silver, as a rare equestrian design, as a practical luxury object, and as a decorative cabinet piece with investment appeal.

Measurements
Height: 14.3 cm (5.6″)
Width: 8.5 cm (3.3″)
Thickness: 1.1 cm (0.4″)
Weight: 229.56 g See less