IMPORTANT: SOLD AS IS / ANTIQUE PATINA STATUS
PLEASE NOTE: This antique Middle Eastern hand-chased white metal cigarette case is being sold strictly AS IS. The metal alloy content has not been professionally acid-tested or verified for exact silver purity. It retains its original, heavily oxidized vintage patina, showing deep tarnish, localized dark tarnish buildup in the relief details, and general handling wear. The interior preserves an elastic holding band. Please place your bids based on the detailed condition notes and photographs provided below.
Item Description
Up for auction or buy-it-now is a magnificent piece of global silversmith artistry: an original antique Middle Eastern Islamic hand-chased pocket case. This spectacular container features deep, high-relief hand-hammered repoussé craftsmanship typical of historic Persian, Syrian, or Ottoman-era metalwork traditions.
Exquisite Front Face Repoussé: Meticulously detailed with a traditional avian and botanical scene featuring two birds (including a stylized rooster or bird of paradise) nestled among blooming flowers, leafy branches, and dense arabesque vines, all framed by a geometric micro-chased border.
Intricate Reverse Face: Decorated with a sprawling geometric medallion or center cartouche, surrounded by complex foliage scrolls and highly detailed corner fillings.
Interior Utility: The inside features a clean, mirrored repoussé relief counter-impression on one flap and a flat satin finish on the opposite side. It retains a flexible woven elastic retention band designed to hold content securely in place.
This versatile estate case works beautifully as a vintage cigarette container, a premium business card billfold wallet, or a standalone display curio piece.
Condition Details
Exterior Metalwork: In solid antique cosmetic condition. The metal alloy exhibits a heavy, beautifully aged dark vintage patina with intentional tarnish highlighting the depth of the chased bird and flower design. The panels show common surface hairline scratches and fine pocket wear scuffing, but no structural cracks or deep metal punctures.
Hinge & Internal Components: The long internal spine hinge remains secure. The push-button side lock closure clicks shut, though there is standard minor alignment play expected for a handcrafted antique piece of this age. The interior fabric elastic strap remains firmly attached.
Functionality: Sold strictly as-is for Middle Eastern antiquities archives, estate tobacciana collections, or international silversmith displays.
Item Specifics & Details
Product Type: Antique Cigarette Case / Business Card Wallet
Artistic Style: Middle Eastern / Islamic Arabesque Repoussé
Motif Artwork: Chased Birds and Floral Vines (Birds of Paradise)
Material Composition: White Metal Alloy (Untested for exact silver purity)
Finish: Heavily Tarnished Antique Patina
Inclusions: Original interior retention elastic strap present
Packaging: Case only (No box or original papers included)