A rare Fabergé lacquered two-colour gold cigarette case, workmaster Michael Perchin, St Petersburg, circa 1895

the surface of cinnabar lacquer within vari-coloured gold stripes and rays, the lid and base centred with a rosette within acanthus tip borders, the end with vesta compartment containing vestas, red tinder cord, struck with workmaster's initals, 56 standard

This object is in a remarkable state of preservation. The goldwork remains crisp, the lacquer with only minor abrasions. A very chic, brilliantly conceived and well-crafted object.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Like much of Fabergé's production, this object is un hommage to the work of 18th century French goldsmiths.  In this instance, snuff boxes produced in Paris in the 1770s of composition, or 'poudre d'écaille', and overlaid with gold were the inspiration for this updated version.  A similar Perchin cigarette case, enamelled in opaque white, is illustrated by A. K. Snowman, The Art of Carl Fabergé, 1952, no. 103.