Cigarette case – silver-plated, imitation tortoiseshell, Art Nouveau style

Antique cigarette case – Silver-plated with imitation tortoiseshell in Art Nouveau style, c. 1910

This antique cigarette case from Denmark is an elegant example of early 20th-century decorative metalwork. The silver-plated surface, with its characteristic hand-hammered texture, and the intricately designed central medallion in imitation tortoiseshell lend the case a special charm. The curved ornaments and maritime motifs reflect the design language of Art Nouveau and make the piece a charming collector’s item.

At the centre of the design is a decorative medallion made of imitation tortoiseshell, framed by an artfully crafted cartouche featuring shell motifs. The warm hue of the medallion provides a charming contrast to the silver-coloured, textured surface. The combination of different materials and decorative elements lends the case its distinctive historical character.

The gold-plated interior emphasises the high-quality design and provides an elegant contrast to the silver-plated exterior. With its compact dimensions of 1 × 9.8 × 7.8 cm, the case adheres to the classic proportions of historical cigarette cases. The meticulous craftsmanship and ornamental design make it, even today, a decorative accessory and an interesting testament to everyday culture around 1910.

The cigarette case is in good to very good condition for its age, with slight signs of wear and ageing. There is a small dent on the back, approximately the size of a fingertip. This sign of wear is part of the history of this piece, which is over a hundred years old, and does not significantly detract from its decorative character. The exact condition can be seen in the product photographs.

As a historical collector’s item from the Art Nouveau period, this case is particularly suited to enthusiasts of antique silverware, decorative metalwork and unusual vintage accessories. The combination of a hammered finish, imitation tortoiseshell and a gold-plated interior makes it a distinctive object with a special charm.

Product details

• Product type: Antique cigarette case / cigarette tin
• Style: Art Nouveau
• Country of origin: Denmark
• Date: c. 1910
• Material: Silver-plated metal and imitation tortoiseshell
• Surface: Hand-hammered texture
• Decoration: Central medallion with ornamental cartouche and shell motifs
• Interior: Gold-plated interior
• Colour: Silver-coloured with brown imitation tortoiseshell and a gold-coloured interior
• Dimensions (H × W × D): Approx. 1 × 9.8 × 7.8 cm
• Condition: Good to very good, with age-related signs of wear
• Notable signs of wear: Small dent on the reverse, approximately the size of a fingertip
• Special features: Hand-hammered surface, imitation tortoiseshell, shell motif and gilded interior
• Collectors’ categories: Art Nouveau, antique cigarette cases, historical accessories and decorative metalwork

About Art Nouveau

Art Nouveau, also known internationally as Jugendstil, shaped European art and design at the turn of the 19th to the 20th century. It is characterised by flowing lines, organic forms and decorative motifs inspired by nature. These design elements were found not only in architecture and furniture, but also in jewellery, silverware and high-quality everyday objects.

In Scandinavia in particular, a distinctive interpretation of Art Nouveau developed, combining traditional craftsmanship with a clear, elegant design language. This Danish cigarette case, dating from around 1910, incorporates typical design elements of the era with its shell motif, the high-contrast medallion and the hammered surface.