Antique German Silver Enamel Case with Romantic Garden Scene

An Early 20th-Century German Case Combining Figurative Enamel Art and Green Guilloché

This exceptional antique German cigarette case is crafted in sterling silver and richly decorated with contrasting enamel work on both sides.

The front presents a finely rendered polychrome enamel garden scene, depicting elegantly dressed figures gathered beside a classical fountain. The costumes, pastoral setting, and romantic composition draw inspiration from 18th-century Rococo imagery, a historical style frequently revisited in the decorative arts of the early 20th century.

The reverse provides a dramatic contrast through its translucent emerald-green guilloché enamel. A repeating wave pattern engraved beneath the enamel creates a sense of depth and movement as the surface catches the light. Both panels are framed by glossy black enamel, while the sterling silver edges are finished with delicate engraved ornamentation.

A small blue cabochon accent embellishes the push-button clasp. The case opens to reveal its original silver-gilt interior, now displaying the gentle surface wear and patina expected from age and use.

Marked “STERLING GERMANY” along the interior rim, the case likely dates to the early 20th century, circa 1910–1925. Its combination of narrative enamel painting, geometric guilloché work, and contrasting coloration makes it an especially decorative example of German silverwork from the period.

Key Features

• Origin: Germany
• Period: Early 20th century, circa 1910–1925
• Type: Cigarette case / collectible decorative case
• Material: Sterling silver with a silver-gilt interior
• Front Decoration: Polychrome enamel romantic garden scene
• Reverse Decoration: Translucent green guilloché enamel
• Borders: Contrasting black enamel
• Clasp: Push-button closure with a blue cabochon accent
• Marking: Stamped “STERLING GERMANY”
• Condition: Very good antique condition with surface wear, fine marks, and wear to the interior gilding consistent with age

Collector’s Note

Double-sided enamel cigarette cases are less commonly encountered than examples decorated on only one surface. This piece is particularly appealing because each side offers a completely different artistic treatment: a miniature figurative composition on one face and vivid geometric guilloché enamel on the other. Today, it can be appreciated as both a functional antique case and a refined objet de vertu.

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