DUNHILL London 1979 Rare Sculptural Modernism Desk Lighter In .925 Sterling Silver

Sculptural modernism lighter designed by Alfred Dunhill

An exceptional sculptural desk lighter created by Alfred Dunhill in London, England, and hallmarked 1979 for retail exclusively through the firm's London boutique. This extraordinarily rare model is masterfully crafted in solid .925 sterling silver, exhibiting a striking sculptural design with deeply modeled scalloped "dragon" motifs and elegantly twisted contours rising from a square base.

The lighter possesses remarkable architectural presence, combining bold modernist styling with the refined craftsmanship for which Alfred Dunhill is celebrated. Its imposing height of 146 mm and highly sculptural form suggest that it may have been produced as a prototype, a special commission, or a very limited-production model, as no comparable example is known.

Powered by butane and in fully operational condition, the lighter is preserved in outstanding original condition with no dents, repairs, or significant marks, retaining a beautiful natural patina that enhances its sculptural character. An exceptionally rare and visually impressive work of silver craftsmanship, this remarkable Dunhill desk lighter is both a functional luxury object and a collectible work of art, representing a superb addition to any distinguished collection of Alfred Dunhill accessories or twentieth-century decorative arts.

History

This classic petrol lift arm lighter model was introduced by Alfred Dunhill in 1929 and remained a very popular piece in the collection until the switch to gas in the 1960. This example is known as the 'Ball' lighter, for obvious reasons. The Ball was launched with a straight lift arm initially in 1928, and then with a curved lift arm in 1929. It was launched in two sizes and came in both sterling and in different carats of solid gold. The fabulous design of this piece allows it to always sit upright on a table, due to its weighted design. It appeared from 1929 up until 1933 in the Dunhill catalogues and was then removed form the offerings.

Country: London, England.

Period: Modernism, 1979.

Model: Sculptural table-desk lighter.

Material: Sterling silver .925.

Finish: Hammered, scalloped and polished.

Rarity: Unique, most probably a prototype since we was not able to locate another one.

Weight: 257.65 Grams, (165.20 Dwt).

Measurements: H. 146 mm by L. 45 mm by D. 45 mm (5.75 x 1.75 x 1.75 Inches).

Hallmarks: Stamped with British marks, for the city of London, the maker's mark for Alfred Dunhill, the mark for the assay and warranty of the .925/.999 silver, the letter E for the production and assay date of 1979 and signed as follows; "AD DUNHILL  E"

Alfred Dunhill 

He inherited his father’s London saddlery in 1893. Following the increase in motor car ownership, Alfred developed the business to include motoring accessories, which he called ‘Dunhill’s Motorities’. This included goggles, timepieces, picnic sets, and leather coats, and it wasn’t long before the brand became associated with men’s general motoring attire. They opened two shops in Mayfair and had a catalogue of over 1300 items. Between the 1904 and 1905, Dunhill introduced their ‘Windshield Pipe’, to help drivers combat the effect of wind and travel on their ability to smoke. This marked both the end of the ‘motorities’ focus and their entry into the world of smoking ephemera, and they shortly opened their first tobacconist in 1907 on Duke Street. The proximity to several esteemed Private Members Clubs around the Mayfair, St James’ area ensured that the venture was a success. (From Nicholas Wells With Thanks).

Note: This Dunhill desk modernist lighter is empty of any flammable, gas or butane substances and is ready to be ship by any carrier. This lighter just need a new flint and proper lighter fluid. Was tested and is in working condition.

Condition: The overall condition of this Dunhill desk modernist lighter is excellent. Beside the little normal wear there is no damage to the silver and is in working-display condition. All parts are secured in the settings. This piece was carefully inspected to guarantee the condition & authenticity.

INVENTORY REF: D072026EMNM/7.638