Auction Name: 2025 December 17 Imperial Fabergé & Russian Works of Art Signature® Auction

Lot Number: 69044

Shortcut to Lot: HA.com/8232*69044

A Fabergé "War" Silver Cigarette Case
Fabergé, St Petersburg, 1914-1917, with scratched inventory number 24947
3-3/4 x 2-3/8 x 0-3/4 inches (9.5 x 6.0 x 1.9 cm)
109 grams (3.5 troy ounces)

PROVENANCE:
Private Collection, California.


The offered lot, with its inventory number of 24947 was ordered as part of a series of at least 80 cigarette cases. Other examples from this series were sold Sotheby's London, Russian Art / Works of Art & Faberge, June 12, 2007, lot no. 523 (inventory number 24959), and Christie's London, Russian Art, November 25, 2013, lot no. 259 (inventory number 24961).
Fabergé's so-called "War" [ВОЙНА] accessories mark the firm's turn towards austerity during World War I, when workshops produced simple, functional objects in base metals for patriotic sale and for charitable purposes. Typical pieces in copper and brass-cooking pots, bowls, ashtrays, and cigarette cases like the offered lot-carry stamped or repoussé inscriptions such as "War 1914" or "War 1914-1915" beneath the Imperial eagle. Examples include a copper or brass cigarette cases inscribed "War 1914*1915 K. Fabergé", copper, brass or silver ashtrays, and even lidded cooking pans and pots stamped "War 1914". Together, the "War" accessories demonstrate Fabergé's rapid appearance of wartime materials issues-copper and silver standing in for lavish gold-while preserving the house's impeccable workmanship and Imperial taste.

Heritage Auctions is grateful to Anna and Vincent Palmade for their assistance in the research of this lot.


*Heritage Auctions strives to provide as much information as possible but encourages in-person inspection by bidders. Statements regarding the condition of objects are only for general guidance and should not be relied upon as complete statements of fact, and do not constitute a representation, warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Some condition issues may not be noted in the condition report but are apparent in the provided photos which are considered part of the condition report. Please note that we do not de-frame lots estimated at $1,000 or less and may not be able to provide additional details for lots valued under $500. Heritage does not guarantee the condition of frames and shall not be liable for any damage/scratches to frames, glass/acrylic coverings, original boxes, display accessories, or art that has slipped in frames. All lots are sold "AS IS" under the Terms & Conditions of Auction.

Include Thumbnail(s)