TWO LACQUER, EBONY, NEPHRITE AND CORAL CIGARETTE BOXES, STRAUSS ALLARD MEYER, CIRCA 1926

Each of rectangular outline, the exterior applied with black lacquer, to an ebony foot and bracket feet, one lid set with a nephrite finial carved as a mythical beast, its eyes set with onyx and collet-set rose diamonds, the other lid set with a coral finial carved as a Buddhist lion, a bird and a butterfly on a tree stump, measuring approximately 86 x 84 x 124mm and 86 x 84 x 137mm respectively, each numbered, with French assay marks, British import hallmarks and French maker's marks for Strauss Allard Meyer.

Numbered 17185 and 5196 respectively, each stamped with British import hallmarks for silver, date letter L for 1926, sponsor's mark GF, with French assay mark for silver to lid and lip of box. Boxes and feet each with additional French maker's mark SAM with artist's pallet for Strauss, Allard, Meyer, feet with extra British hallmarks for silver, one foot on nephrite finial box numbered 5246. Carved finials in good condition, with some very minor chips to extremities. Lacquer with areas of unevenness, some small restored areas of loss to corners. Areas of tarnish to metal. Boxes slightly loose in plinths due to loose screws. Plinths overall in good condition, with some areas of chipping to corners. Overall in good condition, commensurate with age. Combined gross weight approximately 645.7 grams.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Please note that colour, clarity and weight of gemstones are statements of opinion only and not statements of fact by Sotheby's. We do not guarantee, and are not responsible for any certificate from a gemological laboratory that may accompany the property. We do not guarantee that watches are in working order. 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 refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue, in particular to the Notice regarding the treatment and condition of gemstones.
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."

The Parisian firm of Strauss, Allard & Meyer specialised in fine jewelled cigarette cases and accessories, and were regular suppliers to many major jewellery houses throughout the 1920s, including Lacloche Frères, Van Cleef & Arpels and Cartier.