Antique Sterling Silver Cigarette Case with Original Enamel Horse, Birmingham 1917
£1,400.00
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This elegant antique British cigarette case was made in sterling silver and assayed in Birmingham in 1917. Its most striking feature is the large original enamel panel showing a galloping bay horse in an English landscape of green hills, fencing, trees, and pale sky. The scene is full of movement and has the feel of a miniature sporting painting, making the case far more distinctive than the usual plain silver examples of the period.
The silver body is beautifully proportioned in the classic cut-cornered rectangular form, with a finely engine-turned reverse and a rich gilt interior. At 229.56 grams it is a substantial and satisfying object in the hand, and its depth means it can be used today not only for cigarettes but also for business cards or folded note papers.
A particularly important point for collectors is that the enamel panel is original to the case and not a later addition. It sits correctly and evenly within the surrounding silver frame, with no evidence of re-soldering, later mounting, or modern intervention. The piece was examined under ultraviolet light, and there was no fluorescence associated with later restoration, adhesive repairs, or modern coatings.
Condition is excellent. The enamel is free from cracks and chips, the colours remain vivid, the interior gilding is very well preserved, and the clasp closes firmly and precisely. The silver case itself shows no dents or distortion.
This is a rare and highly decorative piece of British silver with a strong equestrian subject, ideal for a horse lover, a collector of antique silver, or anyone drawn to beautifully made objects with real character and history.
Dimensions:
143 mm × 85 mm
Thickness: 11 mm
Weight: 229.56 g
Please study the accompanying photographs carefully as they form an integral part of this description. If you have any questions, we will be happy to answer them. The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance. It is important to note that shipping costs include labour, packaging and postage.
Antique Sterling Silver Cigarette Case with Original Enamel Horse, Birmingham 1917
£1,400.00
The silver body is beautifully proportioned in the classic cut-cornered rectangular form, with a finely engine-turned reverse and a rich gilt interior. At 229.56 grams it is a substantial and satisfying object in the hand, and its depth means it can be used today not only for cigarettes but also for business cards or folded note papers.
A particularly important point for collectors is that the enamel panel is original to the case and not a later addition. It sits correctly and evenly within the surrounding silver frame, with no evidence of re-soldering, later mounting, or modern intervention. The piece was examined under ultraviolet light, and there was no fluorescence associated with later restoration, adhesive repairs, or modern coatings.
Condition is excellent. The enamel is free from cracks and chips, the colours remain vivid, the interior gilding is very well preserved, and the clasp closes firmly and precisely. The silver case itself shows no dents or distortion.
This is a rare and highly decorative piece of British silver with a strong equestrian subject, ideal for a horse lover, a collector of antique silver, or anyone drawn to beautifully made objects with real character and history.
Dimensions:
143 mm × 85 mm
Thickness: 11 mm
Weight: 229.56 g
Please study the accompanying photographs carefully as they form an integral part of this description. If you have any questions, we will be happy to answer them. The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance. It is important to note that shipping costs include labour, packaging and postage.