Alfred Dunhill 1940 London Rectangular Box Case In .925 Sterling And Shagreen
Art deco box designed by Alfred Dunhill.
A beautiful rectangular box, created in London England by the luxury brand house of Alfred Dunhill. This rare case box, was been realized during the WW2 period, back in the 1940. Crafted at the London workshop of Mosley, Flowers & Co with sharp and elegant geometric patterns in solid .925/.999 sterling silver. Embellished around with engine turned designs and accented on both sides, with panels of natural green shagreen leather. It is fitted with a lid, invisible integrated barrels hinge and a push thumb to lift.
Weight: 93.2 Grams, (59.74 Dwt).
Measurements: 84 mm by 64 mm by 13 mm (3.30 x 2.50 x 0.51 Inches).
Hallmarks: Both parts are stamped with the British crown marks, The lion's head for the city of London, the letter E for the production and assayed year 1940, the maker's mark M&F associated to Mosley, Flowers & Co. and signed, "DUNHILL LONDON ".
Mosley, Flowers & Co.
The workshop of Mosley, Flowers & Co, was composed by Robert Frederick Mosley and Arthur Samuel Flowers. They was located in west London at the Albemarle Street. The workshop was registered between the 1912 and 1915. They was specialized in boxes.
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 cigarette case is very similar to some petrol lighters manufactured by Dunhill for the sub-brand Parker Beacon.
Collateral: It is accompanied by the designer's burgundy fabric pouch.
Condition: The overall condition of this box is exceptional. Beside the little normal wear, there is no damage to the silver or shagreen. All parts are secured in the setting and in working condition. This piece has been carefully inspected to guarantee the condition and authenticity.
INVENTORY REF: D010823TNMJ/2.763
