Austrian Silver and Enamel Cigarette Case with Japonaiserie Landscape, 1900

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A vibrant cobalt blue enamel panel depicting an architectural Japanese landscape forms the focal point of this slim silver pocket … Read more A vibrant cobalt blue enamel panel depicting an architectural Japanese landscape forms the focal point of this slim silver pocket case. Created in the Japonaiserie taste that captured Western fashion, the pictorial scene shows traditional pavilions set amongst rocky hills, bamboo, and slender trees, accented with gilded line work, drifting cloud forms, and a circular crest emblem above. Measuring 8.3 cm by 4.6 cm, the rectangular case was proportioned to hold four slender cigarettes or cheroots. The main scenic panel is framed by vertical borders of opaque black enamel and delicate beaded silver margins. Both narrow exterior sides of the silver case are chased with crisp geometric zig-zag motifs punctuated by fine punched dots. On the reverse, an equally vivid blue ground displays a single asymmetric gnarled tree branch bearing detailed sprays of foliage. Dating to circa 1900, the interior retains its fitted four-division layout and bears official Austrian hallmarks stamped along the lip. A raised silver thumbpiece at the top edge operates the spring catch, allowing the hinged covers to open smoothly. Viennese silver workshops of this period frequently blended sophisticated enamelling techniques with East Asian decorative themes to produce elegant smoking requisites for an international market. Overall condition is good for an enamelled silver piece of this age. The vitreous enamelling retains brilliant colour and gloss across both covers, though an older repair is visible near the lower right edge of the front panel. The engraved silver casing, hinge, and integrated thumbpiece clasp remain firm and structurally sound. See less