JEAN TROTTIN 1925 Art Deco Lacquered & Eggshell Case In .950 Sterling Silver
A lacquered and eggshell case by Jean Trottin.
An impressive and very rare case created in Paris, France, by the silversmith and artist Jean Trottin, circa 1925. This exceptional Art Deco cigarette case is masterfully crafted in solid sterling silver .950/.999 fineness with gilt interiors, reflecting the refined craftsmanship of the period. The lid is exquisitely embellished with a dynamic nautical yacht racing scene set against a cloudy sky, rendered in polychrome lacquer in shades of blue, red, black, cream, and eggshell. The composition captures both movement and atmosphere, exemplifying the artistic sophistication of Art Deco design. The case is fitted with a ten-barrel hinge, a push-button closure, and an interior retaining bar to secure cigarettes in place. The push button is accented with a rectangular faceted black onyx, adding a refined decorative detail. The interior bears an engraved dedicatory inscription dated 13 July 1926, further enhancing its historical interest and provenance. A rare and highly collectible example of French Art Deco silver, combining fine craftsmanship, artistic decoration, and functional elegance. Fully hallmarked and properly stamped.
Eggshell Lacquer
This is a centuries-old decorative technique that involves embedding fragments of eggshell into layers of natural lacquer to create intricate mosaic patterns and achieve white tones that traditional lacquer cannot naturally produce. While primarily associated with Vietnamese sơn mài art, it was also used in ancient Japan (known as rankaku) and popularized in Western design by Art Deco artists like Jean Dunand, Jean Trottin and others in the 1920s. Artisans typically use chicken or duck eggshells, though quail shells are often preferred for their uniform texture in high-end Japanese work. The binding agent is natural lacquer—a resin extracted from the Rhus succedanea or Rhus vernicifera trees. Natural lacquer does not naturally produce a true white; eggshells provide the only way to achieve bright, vivid whites or shimmering highlights in traditional lacquerware.
Country: Paris, France.
Period: Art-Deco, 1925.
Artist: Jean Trottin.
Materials: .950 Silver, color lacquers, eggshell lacquer and 24kt gilt.
Weight: 141.60 Grams, (90.80 Dwt).
Measurements: 107.7 mm by 85.9 mm by 8.4 mm (4.24 x 3.38 x 0.31 Inches).
Hallmarks: Stamped with French marks; the maker's mark JT inside a lozenge cartouche associated to Jean Trottin and the octagonal mark of Minerva for the assay and warranty of the .950/.999 silver,
Jean Trottin
He was a French goldsmith specializing in luxury vanity and cigarette cases during the Art Deco period, roughly active around the 1920s to 1940s. He is recognized for his work with enamel, eggshell and colored lacquer on silver, with pieces frequently highlighting geometric, silhouetted scenes. Trottin is known for his work in collaboration with renowned designer Raymond Templier, creating iconic Art Deco designs during the 1920s. He crafted specialized silver cigarette cases featuring delicate lacquered designs. A known example (circa 1940) features a red, beige, cream, and olive-colored lacquer scene depicting a hunter with hounds on a silver case, with contrasting blue lacquer on the reverse. His designs often included black enameled interiors, pierced cigarette clips, and detailed lacquer work on precious metals. Works attributable to him often feature a French assay mark for silver and the specific maker's mark for Jean Trottin.
Collateral: This Jean Trottin box is accompanied by a presentation jewelry pouch.
Condition: The overall condition of this Jean Trottin box is good. Beside the little normal wear there is no damage to the silver. The lacquer & eggshell parts are light restored and don’t detract. This box was carefully inspected to guarantee the condition & authenticity.
INVENTORY REF: D041826BONS/4.198 MW/EG
