This extraordinary Dunhill Aquarium Lighter dates from the 1950s and was created exclusively under the hand of master engraver Ben Shillingford.

Each lighter features four reverse-intaglio Lucite panels — a shatterproof acrylic developed during WWII — meticulously carved with dental-tool precision and hand-painted to evoke three-dimensional aquatic scenes beneath a clear crystal façade. The panels are mounted on a gold-plated brass chassis, signed “Dunhill” on the lift arm and bearing a unique registration mark on the base.

Produced in four sizes, this example is the coveted Half-Giant model — ideal as a table centrepiece while still remaining portable. It is fuelled by petrol, reflecting its pre-butane era craftsmanship.

Beloved by post-war aristocracy — including Winston Churchill, who famously kept one on his desk at Chartwell — these lighters ceased production following Shillingford’s retirement in 1959, making each surviving example highly sought after by collectors today.

This piece remains in good condition with minor scratches commensurate with age and is in full working order.

Requires a good clean and polish!