✅ Caesarian (Old Russian) Solid Silver/Enamel Cigarette Case

Description: A HOLY-GRAIL historic artwork! This unique and rare vintage cigarette case is a must-have for any collector. Made in (old-pre/imperial) Russia (~150 yrs old!) it features an enamel design on solid silver, adding a touch of elegance to your collection. The case is perfect for storing your favorite cigarettes and is sure to impress. FYI, this very piece is valued over 3,000 US$ by experts, and is unlikely to be easily found.Keep in mind, such a rare gem was strictly customized for the high ranking elites in the Caesarian empire back then! With its intricate (floral/birds) design and high-quality materials, this cigarette case is a true gem. It is such a great addition to any collection. Whether you're a collector or just looking for a special item, this Caesarian (Old Russian) Solid Silver/Enamel Cigarette Case is sure to exceed your expectations. Sold “AS IS”; no returns accepted. ——————— History; Vintage silver (84) colored enamel cigarette cases are rare due to their historical, cultural, and artistic significance, particularly in the context of Russian and Caesarian history. These objects are emblematic of a bygone era of luxury and craftsmanship, reflecting the wealth and sophistication of Imperial Russia before the revolution. Here’s an in-depth look at their rarity, artistry, and the dangers of their creation, framed within their historical context: Rarity 1.Russian Silver Standard (84 Zolotniks): •The “84” hallmark represents 84 zolotniks, a Russian silver purity standard (87.5% pure silver) used before the Bolshevik Revolution of 1917. •Many of these cases were produced during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a time of opulence under the Romanov dynasty. After the revolution, luxury items like these were often confiscated, melted down, or destroyed, making surviving pieces rare. 2.Luxury and Exclusivity: •Cigarette cases with intricate enamelwork were luxury items, commissioned by aristocrats, merchants, and members of the imperial court. Their exclusivity means that only a small number were made. •The cases often bore monograms, family crests, or dedications, tying them to specific individuals or events in history. 3.Historical Turmoil: •The fall of the Russian Empire and the subsequent Soviet era led to the destruction or export of many such items. Surviving cases are rare artifacts of pre-revolutionary Russian craftsmanship and culture. Artistry 1.Masterful Enamelwork: •Enamel decoration was a hallmark of Russian luxury goods, with techniques like cloisonné (wire partitions filled with enamel) and guilloché (engine-turned patterns beneath translucent enamel) reaching their peak during this period. •These cases often featured vivid colors, intricate floral motifs, and geometric patterns inspired by Russian folklore and art movements like Art Nouveau. 2.Renowned Workshops: •Workshops like those of Fabergé and Ovchinnikov produced some of the finest enamel cigarette cases, often incorporating precious stones and gold accents. Such pieces are now considered museum-quality treasures. 3.Personalized Designs: •Many cases were bespoke, tailored to the tastes of wealthy patrons. They might include imperial symbols (like the Romanov double-headed eagle), depictions of Russian landscapes, or dedications to commemorate special occasions. Dangers in Making 1.Toxic Materials: •The enamel process involved grinding glass and metal oxides into powder to create vibrant colors. Artisans inhaled these fine particles, which could cause (while making) respiratory illnesses and heavy metal poisoning. •Lead-based enamels, commonly used, posed severe health risks, including neurological damage. 2.High Temperatures: •Enameling required firing the powdered glass at high temperatures (up to 800°C/1,472°F) to fuse it to the silver. This process was highly dangerous, with risks of burns and explosions from improperly handled kilns. 3.Silverworking Hazards: •Silverworking involved melting and shaping the metal, as well as using acids for cleaning and etching. Artisans were exposed to toxic fumes and corrosive substances, often without adequate protection. 4.Precision and Labor Intensity: •Creating these cases demanded meticulous attention to detail. A single mistake in applying enamel or firing could ruin weeks of work. The pressure to achieve perfection added to the physical and mental strain on artisans. Historical Context 1.Imperial Russia’s Luxury Arts: •During the reign of the Romanovs, particularly under Tsar Alexander III and Nicholas II, there was a flourishing of luxury goods as symbols of wealth and power. Cigarette cases became fashionable accessories among the elite. •The artistry of these cases reflects the grandeur of the Russian Empire before its collapse, blending Western European techniques with distinctly Russian aesthetics. 2.Revolution and Decline: •After the 1917 revolution, the Bolsheviks rejected luxury items as symbols of bourgeois decadence. Many cases were destroyed, sold abroad, or hidden away, making those that survive rare relics of a lost era. 3.Cultural Significance: •These cigarette cases are more than just functional objects; they are symbols of the opulence, artistry, and eventual downfall of Imperial Russia. Their rarity today makes them highly collectible and valuable. Vintage silver (84) colored enamel cigarette cases are rare due to their association with Imperial Russia, their intricate craftsmanship, and the historical upheavals that led to their destruction. The artistry involved reflects the height of Russian luxury, while the dangers of their creation highlight the sacrifices made by skilled artisans. Today, these cases serve as both artistic masterpieces and poignant reminders of a vanished world. Be aware, there are hundreds of fakes out there claiming to be of this vintage caliber. This is a true RARE VINTAGE AUTHENTIC masterpiece!

Price: 2450 USD

Location: Amman

End Time: 2025-01-20T17:01:08.000Z

Shipping Cost: 24.95 USD