Stunning Vintage Japanese .950 Sterling Silver & Maki-e Lacquer Cigarette Case
Up for auction, from the collection of Paul Taylor, who loved and collected vintage lighters for 30+ years, is an exquisite, heavy-grade vintage Japanese cigarette case dating from the mid-20th century (Showa period / Post-WWII era).
This substantial piece weighs an impressive 294.9 grams and balances fine metalwork with traditional Japanese artistry.
Design & Craftsmanship:
The exterior of the case is finished in a high-gloss black lacquer featuring a beautiful Maki-e style scene of traditional cherry blossoms (Sakura) drifting along elegant, swirling water currents. The blossoms are meticulously detailed in metallic gold, silver, and vibrant coral-orange pigments.
The interior reveals a bright, reflective silver finish stamped with "950 SILVER" and a Maker's Mark; a stylized workshop hallmark seal (Kako) stamped above the purity mark. It retains its original, highly detailed decorative silver retention bar/chain to hold items in place securely. The spring-loaded hinge and push-button clasp function perfectly, snapping shut with a satisfying click.
Versatility:
While originally intended for cigarettes, this luxury case makes an incredibly elegant holder for modern business cards, credit cards, or cash, or it can be displayed as a centerpiece heirloom in an Asian art or fine silver collection.
Condition: Excellent vintage condition with honest signs of light wear. The lacquer has a brilliant shine with some minor surface micro-scratches and slight edge wear consistent with age, but no major chips or cracks to the artwork. The silver interior shows light tarnish/patina which can be polished if desired, but has been left original.
Please see all high-resolution photos for exact condition details.
Dimensions: 7 2/16” x 3 7/16” x 7:16”
Total Weight: 294.9g
⭐️ This piece is from the personal collection of the late Paul A. Taylor (1952-2024). Paul was a dedicated craftsman and collector known for his appreciation of fine mechanical design and historical manufacturing. This lighter has been curated and kept as part of a significant private collection.
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