Antique Silver and Rose Plated Russian Cigarette Case (100 mm x 80 mm)

An exceptional example of refined craftsmanship from the final decades of Imperial Russia, this sterling silver cigarette case measures approximately 100 mm x 80 mm and embodies both luxury and utility characteristic of the late 19th to early 20th century. The case is struck with the Russian "84" silver standard, indicating 84 zolotniks purity (approximately 87.5 percent silver content), the official standard for high-grade silver during the Imperial era. The zolotnik system, formalized under Peter the Great in the early 18th century, standardized Russian silver purity and hallmarking practices, laying the foundation for the rigorous assay system that followed. This piece bears the Kokoshnik assay mark: the profile of a woman facing right, with the number "84" to her right and a small Greek letter to her left, denoting the Moscow assay district. This Kokoshnik mark was introduced in 1908 as the new national hallmark of the Russian Empire and remained in use until 1926. Notably, in 1908 the design transitioned from an intaglio (incuse) stamp to a raised relief format, which can help narrow dating depending on the exact execution of the mark. Also present are additional stamps including the maker’s mark "BH" identifying the silversmith, the standard "84" purity mark and the Moscow district indicator. Together, these hallmarks strongly suggest production in Moscow between 1908 and 1917, just prior to the Russian Revolution, placing it firmly in the late Imperial period.

The case is hinged along its longer side, opening smoothly to reveal a richly gilt (vermeil) interior. The warm golden wash was not merely decorative, gilding prevented tarnish and protected the flavour of the tobacco, a common and practical feature in fine cigarette cases of the period. The front exterior features two rectangular shaped plaques, one towards the top and the other towards the bottom and each are elegantly engraved with flowing scripture. The top says "Marie" and the bottom plaque is engraved "Johanna Erich" rendered in a contrasting rose-toned finish that stands out beautifully against the silver ground. The use of rose gilding or applied colouration for monograms was a fashionable decorative technique in Russian silver, adding depth and personal distinction. Inside, the original elastic straps remain attached on both sides, designed to secure cigarettes neatly in place. A marquise-shaped green-coloured gripoix glass provides the release mechanism necessary to open the case.

Cigarette cases became fashionable personal accessories in Russia during the late 19th century, particularly among military officers, aristocracy and the growing professional class. In Imperial society, such objects were both practical and symbolic, often given as presentation pieces, commemorative gifts or personal luxury items. Moscow was one of the major silversmithing centres of Imperial Russia, alongside St. Petersburg. Pieces bearing Moscow assay marks are frequently admired for their slightly more traditional and ornamental aesthetic compared to the often Western influenced styles of the capital. Following the Russian Revolution of 1917, the Imperial hallmarking system was gradually replaced under Soviet authority, making pre-Revolutionary Kokoshnik-marked silver especially desirable to collectors today.

• Sterling silver; rose gold plate
• Gram weight is 155.8
• Measures approximately 100 mm x 80 mm
• Independently appraised value for insurance purposes: $1,295.00 (note: may not reflect selling price)

All items in the Estate Originals Collection are estate pieces created in years gone by. Although this item is in excellent condition, it could have some signs of its age and past enjoyment. The images shown are of the exact item you will receive.