Hello,
I've been trying to identify the maker and age of what appears to be a cigarette box. Its lion and anchor marks have had me looking for British and US makers. However, the lack of a sovereign mark has me boggled, as does the mysterious serpent-like "S" stamp. Additionally, though its hunting theme would strike a chord with British buyers, its rendering is in a distinctively Old German style. Although I've looked through German, Austrian, Dutch, Hanau pseudo and other marks on your site and others, I've come up with a big goose egg on this one. I'd appreciate any information you have to offer.
The box measures: 5.5cm-W x 8cm-H x 2cm-W.
Note: On the inside of the lid someone has faintly scratched "w/—/—" and "g/e/—" in lower case old-fashioned handwriting. (The "e" looks more like a backward "3" than the "e" in this post's font. Sorry: I can't get a good shot of it — too faint)
Thanks for your time!
This second picture is the marks and top of the case
Birmingham Marks? Engraved Cigarette Box, Hunting Scene, Sterling & Parcel Gilt
Re: Birmingham Marks? Engraved Cigarette Box, Hunting Scene, Sterling & Parcel Gilt
Hi, welcome to the forum.
Very good quality workmanship, I believe the anchor mark has been seen before – it was used on items for the Royal Navy. I should go in the direction of British colonial .
Good luck with your search and please keep us informed.
Best,
Oel.
Very good quality workmanship, I believe the anchor mark has been seen before – it was used on items for the Royal Navy. I should go in the direction of British colonial .
Good luck with your search and please keep us informed.
Best,
Oel.
Re: Birmingham Marks? Engraved Cigarette Box, Hunting Scene, Sterling & Parcel Gilt
Thank you for your insights, Oel. I thought the anchor looked too ornate for a Birmingham mark. That, combined with the fact that the lion is facing the wrong direction had me stumped as to where to look next. (Plus, I'm completely new to this silver thang.) Thanks so much for giving me a direction — I'm loving the challenge and the learning! I'll let you know if/when I know more.
Best,
Kaari
Best,
Kaari