Smith & Bartlam - Cigarette box - Silver

In auction, a refined English silver cigarette case from the Art Deco period, crafted by the renowned silversmiths Smith & Bartlam in Birmingham in 1923.

The object stands out for its heavy gauge (105g), indicating its high construction quality ('heavy gauge silver'). The exterior is finely crafted using engine work (guilloché technique) with a dense pattern that creates splendid plays of light and preserves the surface from signs of time. The interior retains the original vermeil (gold plating), still vivid and bright, typical of luxury objects from that period.

Hallmarks: The object bears complete and clear stamps of English silver.
Leone Passante: Sterling 925 silver guarantee.
Again: Symbol of the Birmingham Assay Office.
Letter 'y': Date letter that unmistakably identifies the year 1923.
Smith & Bartlam manufacturer’s brand.

On the front rectangle, there is an engraving that reads 'La Romanina 6-8-91'. Although the object dates back to 1923, this dedication testifies to its second life as a precious family gift: it was indeed given in 1991 to celebrate the 70th birthday of an Italian gentleman at the historic bathing establishment 'La Romanina' in Versilia. A detail that adds charm and storytelling to this centennial piece.

Very good general conditions for an object of 100 years.

Structure: solid, with no significant dents. Hinge and snap closure functioning perfectly.
Surface: slight patina of time and micro-scratches from use consistent with age.
Well-preserved gilding. Cigarette holder elastics absent.