Very pretty small niello silver (inlaid with typical Art Deco geometric black bands) ladies' cigarette case, dating from the 1930s-1940s.
Niello is the goldsmithing technique of applying niello, a black metallic sulfide that includes copper, silver, and often even lead or borax, used as a filling material in metal marquetry.
This beautiful case bears the following hallmarks: Carl Becker Hofjuwelier (Court Jeweler) COLN, 900 for the silver content, B.C. and on the inner bar V S M.
This German-made case belonged to a young woman named "Alice", her name is engraved inside the lid...
It has some small losses in the black bands on the back (see photos) but is in good overall condition and the clasp closes very well.
Dimensions: 8.3 cm by 4.9 cm. Weight: 62 g.
Very feminine and charming.
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