Antique Austro-Hungarian Silver and Enamel Cigarette / Card Case

This fine antique Austro-Hungarian silver and enamel cigarette/card case has a rectangular form with rounded edges.

The front cover is embellished with an enamel panel depicting two Japanese ladies playing traditional Japanese instruments, the koto (13 stringed zither) and the shamisen (3 stringed guitar-like instrument).

The players are seated on the ground in an outdoor scene with traditional Japanese lanterns hanging from tree branches overhead.

The sides of this cigarette case and posterior cover are plain and unembellished.

The case is fitted with a push fit catch which when released reveals the hallmarked gilt interior of the hinged compartments.

The hallmarks to the interior of this impressive case include:
Silver quality/purity: Dianakopf mark (800 standard, 800/1000)
Assay mark: L (Ljubljana, Slovenia)

This variation of the Dianakopf mark was used from 1872-1922, determining the date of this piece as circa 1900.

Condition
This antique silver business card holder is an exceptional gauge of silver, exceptional quality and in excellent condition. There is a minimal split to one corner of the upper compartment. The enamel is in perfect condition; there are a few minor surface scratches, in keeping with age and use. The reverse cover has been professionally polished. The hallmarks struck to the interior of each compartment are all very clear.

Dimensions
Length 10 cm/3.9″
Width 8 cm/3.1″

Weight
5 troy ounces/155g

Maker: Unknown
Origin: Ljubljana, Slovenia
Date: circa 1900

Video: A video of this fine piece is available upon request.

Reflections in photographs may detract from the true representation of this example of antique silverware.

 SKU A2538