A large and unusual sterling silver smoking compendium.  This is one of the finest quality and most unusual  table smoking boxes we have handled.  From the outside it seems fairly normal.  However, the interior layout is unlike most other boxes from this period.  The adjustable and removable divided rich mahogany wood panels allow for any size and gauge of cigar along the back.  There are two spaces either side at the front for smaller cigars or cigarettes, and then in the center contains three matching and numbered sterling silver ash trays, a double ended sterling cigar cutter, a piercer, and a striking plate for matches.

Perhaps one of the most unusual elements to the box is the folding front panel.  Not only is this rare, but it also adds an added complication to the construction, and therefore cost during its creation.

The body is plain throughout, as the move away from highly decorated boxes from the Victorian period gave way to a paired back aesthetic during Edwardian times before a more decorative move again began during the Art Nouveau and the Art Deco movements. The box is complimented with the addition of beautiful squared proportioned hinged handles.  The interior of the lid and hinged front panel are lemon gilded, both helping to prevent tarnishing from the oxidizing from the tobacco and oxygen, and providing a beautiful interior colour differentiation from the exterior.  The condition of the box throughout is impeccable.  It would make a wonderful addition for any study or library.

There are a series of hallmarks thought out the piece  denoting the sterling silver content, and that it was made in London, England in 1919 by John Henry Hill.