*Asprey 1925 London gorgeous double chest cigar Humidor in .925 sterling silver
Magnificent cigar humidor chest designed by Asprey of London.
A gorgeous and imposing antique cigar humidor desk box, created in London by Asprey in 1925. It was crafted in very fine solid .925/.999 sterling silver and decorated with very delicate engravings of intricate geometric patterns. The box is suited with double compartments with hinged lids, a lighter and a cigar cutter. Have two elegant handles at the sides and is mount in 4 bun feet.
The interiors are embellished, with carved panels of very fine natural cedar wood and the right compartment is suited with a squared plaque in 18 Karats gold to personalize, with a flat surface to engrave some initials or monogram.
It is pretty large and heavy, with a weight of 2,465 Grams (87.2 Troy Ounces) and a measure of 338 mm by 198 mm by 117 mm (13.3 x 7.8 x 4.6 Inches).
Stamped ten times, with British control hallmarks; the Rampant Lion cartouche for the assay and the guaranty of the sterling silver, the mark for the city of London, the gothic letter K for the year of production 1925 and signed, "A&Co. Ltd Asprey London".
Asprey, was established in England in Mitcham, Surrey, in 1781. Founded as a silk printing business by William Asprey, it soon became a luxury emporium. In 1841, William Asprey's elder son Charles went into partnership with a stationer located on London's Bond Street. In 1847, the family broke with this partner and moved into 167 New Bond Street, the premises Asprey occupies today.
From its central London location, Asprey advertised 'articles of exclusive design and high quality, whether for personal adornment or personal accompaniment and to endow with richness and beauty the table and homes of people of refinement and discernment.' An early specialty was dressing cases. Asprey crafted traditional cases and designs, mostly in leather, suitable for the new style of travel ushered in by railways.
As the business grew, the company acquired manufacturing facilities and hired silversmith, goldsmith, jewelers and watchmakers. In the 1920's, commissions poured in from around the world, from American millionaire J. P. Morgan to potentates such as the Maharaja of Patiala, who commissioned a huge teak travelling trunk for each of his wives, in which each trunk was fitted with solid silver washing and bathing utensils with waterspouts of ornate tiger head and lined with blue velvet. Asprey cigarette cases and humidor boxes became collectable amongst young sophisticates who delighted in its other modern products, including travel clocks, safety razors and automatic pencil sharpeners.
Note: This piece has been produced during the reign period of King George V. (1910-1936).
Note: Extremely rare piece and one of the best ones we have ever seen.
It is in great antique condition, with very minimal traces of use and wear as usual for a piece of 100 years old.
INVENTORY REF: D0000SEIR/.1121
