Victorian Silver and Enamel Cigarette Case from Harrison Brothers & Howson, 1887

Details

Description

A finely rendered polychrome enamel panel dominates the front of this solid silver pocket cigarette case, depicting a smiling lady … Read more A finely rendered polychrome enamel panel dominates the front of this solid silver pocket cigarette case, depicting a smiling lady in a ruffled black gown and dark fascinator leaning casually against a wooden paddock rail. Set against an open countryside backdrop beneath a soft evening sky, the miniature portrait is executed with delicate tonal shading and intricate brushwork. Fashioned with rounded corners, the case features a subtle ergonomic curve designed to sit comfortably within a gentleman's breast pocket. The plain reverse is finished in smooth, polished silver, free from any monograms or engraved inscriptions. A sprung silver thumbpiece along the leading edge releases the catch cleanly, pivoting on a flush six-piece hinge. Opening the case reveals a well-preserved gilded interior on both leaves, protecting the silver against tarnishing while providing a warm contrast to the bright exterior. The inner compartment retains an elasticated woven fabric retaining band anchored to the inner rim to hold cigarettes securely in place. Clear English hallmarks struck along the mating rims indicate manufacture in 1887 at the London assay office, alongside the 'GH' maker's mark for George Howson of Harrison Brothers & Howson. The compact case measures 8.9 cm wide by 7.4 cm high. While Continental enamelled silver boxes from this era were widely produced, English-hallmarked examples with figurative portrait miniatures are comparatively scarce, making this hallmarked Victorian piece a notable survivor. See less