There is a name which jewellery enthusiasts adore hearing, and that is Cartier, especially 'Cartier London', and when you combine that with the term 'Art Deco' they might just melt down in a frenzy. This 1930s cigarette case was made from solid 18 karat yellow gold by Jacques Cartier of Cartier London and is literally worth its weight in gold. The case has a machined exterior and highly polished interior and closes with a cabochon sapphire set clasp. To the interior there is an articulated bar which has been pierced with an Art Deco pattern and holds the cigarettes in place. In a 21st Century context this bar could be used to keep credit cards, ID and some tissues in place should you desire to use the case as a small evening clutch. The fancy cut cabochon sapphires in the clasp total four pieces and are likely Ceylonese in origin given this is an Art Deco piece by Cartier. To the interior of one side of the case is an original Art Deco monogram which is most likely 'NWN' or a variation of the same letters. There are crisp London gold hallmarks to the inside of the case with a date letter corresponding to 1934, the height of the Art Deco period, along with a small hallmark 'JC' for Jacques Cartier. The case is also signed in very small cursive lettering, 'Cartier London' which further authenticates the piece as being by the famous firm.
Jacques Cartier, along with his brothers Louis and Pierre took their grandfather Louis-François Cartier's small French jewellery business and turned it into the international brand we know and love today. Pierre Cartier started a branch of the firm in New York, Jacques built the brand in London and their brother Louis remained in France where the company's roots are. The London branch of Cartier were favourite jewellers of the British Royal Family, aristocrats, and numerous celebrities especially during the 1920s and 1930s. Most notably the London branch of Cartier were responsible for creating some of the most iconic wristwatches of the 20th Century including the coveted 'Crash' and 'Baignoire Allongée'.
This exceptional case is in very good condition given it is nearing 100 years of age and shows only minor wear in the form of slight abrasions and minute dents to the gold which are commensurate with age and in many aspects authenticate the piece. It's likely that this is the only one of its kind in the world and is an exceptionally rare piece, a true collector's item. Ideal for use as a small evening clutch, or a lovely addition to a Cartier enthusiast's collection.
Marked - London gold hallmarks for 18 karat gold, 1934 and Jacques Cartier, along with 'Cartier London'
Measures - 12 x 8.3 x 0.8cm
Total weight of piece - 168.5 grams