Cigarette box - .925 silver - John Henry Wynn

Elegant English cigarette case in Sterling Silver 925, made in Birmingham in 1923 and attributed, on the basis of the J.H.W. punch, to silversmith John Henry Wynn.

The cigarette case features a refined rectangular form, slightly domed, with both surfaces richly decorated with scroll engravings, vegetal motifs and stylized foliage, characteristic of the British decorative taste of the early decades of the 20th century.

On the front there is a smooth non-monogrammed cartouche, a particularly appreciated element because the piece is not personalized with initials or dedications.

The interior preserves the characteristic gilding, today with patina and natural signs of time, as well as the elastic intended to hold cigarettes.

Inside the English hallmarks are clearly visible, including the silversmith’s mark J.H.W., the Birmingham anchor, the lion passant of Sterling Silver and the date letter “y”, referring to 1923. On the other half of the case there are also the corresponding secondary marks.

Material: Sterling Silver 925/1000
Silversmith: J.H.W., attributed to John Henry Wynn
Assay Office: Birmingham, England
Year: 1923
Period: early 20th century / Art Deco period
Dimensions: about 9 × 6.9 cm
Total weight: about 64 g

The item presents itself in good overall condition for its age, with patina, oxidation, small scratches, signs of use and normal wear of the interior gilding. These characteristics are consistent with an authentic object of about a century and are clearly documented in the photographs.

The engraved decoration remains well defined and the cartouche is free of monograms.

An interesting example of English pocket silver from the twenties, suitable both for a collection of British silver and for a collection of era smoking accessories.

Professional and careful packaging