FRONTIN-PARIS 1925 French Art-Deco Cigarette Case In 18Kt Gold And Sterling
A French art deco large cigarette case designed by Frontin-Paris.
This is an elegant and very rare cigarettes case created in Paris France during the art deco period, back in the 1925-1930. The case has been masterfully crafted by the famous jewelry atelier of Frontin in a rectangular shape in yellow gold of 18 karats and sterling silver. The box is fitted with a concealed eight-barrels hinge and a mechanical thumb pusher for opening and closure. The pusher is embellished with a rectangular faceted cut black onyx.
There is the makers mark of the workshop that made this special piece present on the inside of the case; Adolphe Frontin. Frontin operated a very high-end silversmith workshop in Paris from 1888, which was then taken over by his sons; Henri & Robert. It is noted that they undertook some custom pieces for Monsieur Cartier around this period, including a number of cases and lighters both pocket and table.
The Art Deco
The Art Deco art movement is defined by geometric shapes, abstract design, and lavish colors. This was the visual effect of luxury, glamour and techniques. A product of innovative new machinery, economic growth, and social freedoms, the style was first introduced in France before the World-War I, However, it wasn’t until the late 1920s, after the war, that it began to gain affection. Antique, traditional and new techniques were revitalized as artists, designers, silversmiths and architects applied the style across a broad range of visual fields, from opulent structures and interiors to fashionable handheld objects.
The Atelier Frontin
The silversmith atelier was founded by Adolphe Frontin a Parisian silversmith and maker of luxury objects, active from approximately 1888 to 1920, who produced items like matchboxes, snuff boxes, and cigarette cases for brands including Cartier, Boucheron and Van Cleef & Arpels. His business entered a mark in 1888 and was struck off in 1920, with his son, Henri et Robert Frontin, taking over the business afterward
Materials: Sterling silver, 18kt yellow gold and cut black onyx.
Weight: 174.6 Grams, (111.95 Dwt).
Measurements: 134 mm by 86 mm by 11 mm (5.25 x 3.40 x 0.43 Inches).
Hallmarks: Stamped with French marks, the maker's mark with two-stars associated to Adolphe Frontin / Frontin-Paris, two times with the eagle head for the assay and warranty of the .750/.999 gold, the four-digits serial numbers and signed as follows; "FRONTIN 2128"
Literature: Rodney and Diane Capstick-Dale, The art deco Collectibles "Fashionable Objects From The Jazz Age", Thames & Hudson 2016, for similar pieces illustrated.
Collateral: This Frontin-Paris French art deco case is accompanied by a presentation jewelry pouch.
Condition: The overall condition of this Frontin-Paris art deco case is very good. Beside the little normal wear, there is no damage to the silver or the gold. Minimal scratches and marks consistent to the period, considering this is a piece of 100 years old. This cigarette case has been carefully inspected to guarantee the condition and authenticity.
INVENTORY REF: P090225VENS/5.176
