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Ultra Rare 1930 s Art Deco Eggshell Black Enamel and Silver Inlay Cigarette Case

$1,550
£1,182.23
€1,346.28
CA$2,178.22
A$2,375.66
CHF 1,258.46
MX$28,480.77
NOK 16,027.23
SEK 14,655.71
DKK 10,058.01

About the Item

Ultra Rare 1930s Art Deco Eggshell Black Enamel Silver Inlay Cigarette Case: Exquisite High Deco Design This Ultra Rare 1930s Art Deco Eggshell Black Enamel and Silver Inlay Cigarette Case is an extraordinary example of high-style Deco craftsmanship and one of the rarest decorative techniques of the period. The exterior is fully clad, front and back, in an exquisitely detailed eggshell mosaic, set beneath deep, glossy black lacquer. This labor-intensive technique, also known as laque d’œuf, was famously used by leading Art Deco designers such as Jean Dunand, Eileen Gray, and Jean Després, who elevated eggshell lacquer to the height of modern luxury. One corner of the case’s lid is intentionally left as a solid field of black lacquer, inlaid with a unique silver design that may reference a stylized monogram or a purely decorative motif. This elegant asymmetry is quintessentially Art Deco, balancing bold geometry with subtle texture and refined materials. The interior is clean and displays light color variation consistent with vintage silverplate, though the case itself is unmarked. Notably, both sides of the interior near the hinge bear maker’s hatch lines in the form of “XXXXX”, an unusual artisanal signature. The original interior elastic is present but loose and warped with age, a typical characteristic of 1930s accessories. There is one area of eggshell loss on an exterior corner, expected in pieces of this fragility and age, but it does little to detract from the exceptional beauty and rarity of the case. The lacquer retains its deep, luxurious luster, and the overall presentation is both stunning and historically significant. Eggshell lacquer cigarette cases are extremely scarce and were coveted in the Art Deco era for their exotic materials, intricate technique, and association with the finest Parisian ateliers. This example—elegant, rare, and masterfully crafted, is a standout addition to any collection of Art Deco objects, lacquerware, smoking accessories, or 1930s design. A truly beautiful and museum-worthy example of high Art Deco craftsmanship, blending modernist geometry, precious materials, and exquisite artisan technique.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 0.38 in (9.66 mm)Width: 3.19 in (8.11 cm)Depth: 3.88 in (9.86 cm)
  • Style:
    Art Deco (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1930 s
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. Interior appears to be silver plate but is unmarked. Exterior: 1 corner has minor loss to eggshell.
  • Seller Location:
    Red Lion, PA
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU10258247878052

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