-Alfred Dunhill 1929 London Art Deco Box .925 Sterling And 18Kt Gold With Ancient Qing Dynasty Jade
Art deco box designed by Alfred Dunhill.
An exceptional and unique presentation rectangular box, created in London England by the luxury brand house of Alfred Dunhill. This very rare box, has been realized during the art deco period in 1929. Crafted with very sharp and elegant geometric patterns, in solid .925/.999 sterling silver with thin incised parallel lines. Accented on top, with eight linear elements made up in yellow and rose gold of 18 karats. It is fitted with a lid of thirteen barrels hinge and a push thumb to lift. The interiors are lined up with panels of natural cedar wood, gilded and the bottom lined with fine leather.
It is framed on top in the center, with a genuine ancient rectangular piece of natural greenish jade from the Chinese Qing Dynasty (1604-1911). The jade (76 x 49 x 7.5 mm) is a magnificent piece of art carved with open works from the 18th century and depicts organics floral motifs and the figure of a standing dragon with four legs facing to the right.
Weight: 1312 Grams, (841.02 Dwt) or (42.18 Troy Ounces).
Measurements: 266.70 mm by 146 mm by 63.50 mm ( 10.25 x 5.75 x 2.5 Inches).
Hallmarks: Both parts are stamped with British crown marks, The lion's head for the city of London, the gothic letter O for the production and assayed year 1929, the maker's mark AD associated to Alfred Dunhill and signed, "DUNHILL LONDON".
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).
Condition: The overall condition of this box is exceptional. Beside the little normal wear, there is no damage to the silver or gold. The carved jade is secured in the setting and in working condition. This piece has been carefully inspected to guarantee the condition and authenticity.
INVENTORY REF: D071423MSOA/39.01
