A sterling silver engine turned match vesta, or safe, with cigarette, or joint, dispenser. This is a stunning and exceptionally rare piece from arguably the finest luxury retail and silversmith in the United Kingdom during the twentieth century; Asprey & Co.. The box has a double hinged lid. Opening the top lid exposes the match safe, or vesta, with striking plate on the underside of the lid. There is a small lip on the side edge of this which then exposes the interior element to the cigarette dispenser. From the top a number of cigarettes, or joints, can be loaded into the body. At the base of the box is a hinged feeding door which draws one down and hands it to the finger tips neatly, while holding the rest inside the box. Simply close it back up to seal. An ingenious design, beautifully made and of the highest quality.
The exterior of the box on the front and tow slim sides is fully engine turned. A process of engraving the silver body of the box with a pattern into the silver. In this case it is known as "Barley" pattern. Not only does this add a level of decoration to the box, but it also allows for greater purchase on the piece if needed. The back of the box has a clip. Such is the size of the piece, not that it is overly big, it is likely that it would have been made to clip into the interior of a car. Asprey, amoung other luxury retailers at the time, made a number of pieces like this for us in the car. It is important to remember during this period, that the majority of well heeled individuals did not drive themselves, and accordingly spent time in the spacious and luxurious rear cabins of their vehicle's. Therefore they would want as many of their creature comforts from home to also be available in their cars.
The box is fully hallmarked for having been made by Asprey & Co. ltd. in London, England in 1926. This very much suits a piece like this. It was made during a period in which there was no liit to excess in the world of the rich and famous. Every need would be tended to and done so in a luxurious nature.
Although initially designed for the car, or plane, it is not ludicrous to assume that this piece could be placed inside a bag, or even attached to a belt, or inside a larger overcoat, or outer wear piece.
The condition of the dispenser is superb throughout, especially given that is fast approaching one hundred years of age. A superb piece from a remarkable time in design and manufacturing history, the likes of which will not be seen again. Modern in design, it would not look out of place in any environment. A testament to its beauty and quality.
