Birmingham (1917) - 烟盒 - 英国古董名片夹，珐琅马镶板，净重 229 g - .925 银 - 银珐琅

一件 rare and high-quality British cigarette case from the First World War period, made in Birmingham in 1917.

Executed in the classic cut-cornered rectangular form associated with the finest early-20th century silverwork, the case is crafted from solid silver and finished with a matt gilt interior, giving a warm, elegant tone and underscoring the status of the piece.

The principal artistic feature is the large hand-painted enamel panel depicting a galloping bay horse set against an English pastoral landscape. The composition is dynamic and expressive: the horse is shown in full motion, with flowing mane, carefully modelled musculature, and accurate anatomy. The artist has convincingly captured the animal’s strength, balance, and sense of freedom. The background of gentle hills, fencing, trees, and pale sky is rendered in a light, almost watercolour-like manner, creating a strong sense of depth and atmosphere. The panel reads as a miniature painting set within a silver frame.

A key point of importance is that the enamel panel is original to the case and was executed at the time of manufacture. This is particularly significant, as a large proportion of comparable examples on the market are later conversions, in which plain silver cigarette cases were decorated with enamel many years after their original production. In this example, the enamel panel is factory-set and flush with the surrounding silver frame, with no evidence of later fitting. There are no signs of re-soldering, filing, or secondary mounting. The piece has been tested under ultraviolet light, and the enamel shows no fluorescence associated with later restoration, modern fluxes, or adhesive repairs. The surface is uniform, with no indication of re-firing or applied protective coatings.

Assay office: Birmingham
Date: 1917

143 × 85 mm
Thickness: 11 mm
Weight: 229.56 g

The size and depth allow the case to be used not only for cigarettes but also for business cards or small note papers, making it both practical and relevant for modern use.

The condition is exceptional. The enamel is free from cracks, chips, or wear, and the colours remain vivid and well preserved. The interior gilding is in excellent condition. The case itself shows no dents or distortions, and the clasp closes firmly and precisely. Overall, it is an outstandingly preserved example with no restoration or later alteration.

Dated British wartime silver of 1917, combined with confirmed original period enamel and a rare equestrian subject, places this piece in a stronger and more stable segment of the market than later-decorated examples. With its substantial silver weight of nearly 230 grams and its versatile format suitable for cabinet display, interior decoration, or gifting, it offers both collector appeal and long-term investment potential.

This is a solid, elegant, and characterful object of its time — an excellent gift for a horse lover, a collector of British silver, or anyone who values authenticity, craftsmanship, and historical depth.

Please take time to view all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description and provide an accurate representation of the item’s details and condition.

The shipping cost includes professional packaging, full insurance, and tracked delivery, ensuring the parcel reaches you safely and securely.