✅ Antique Iraqi Solid Silver Cigarette Case ~163 Grams

Description: This antique cigarette box from Iraq is a rare vintage item that will make a great addition to any collection. It is made of solid silver and weighs approximately 163 grams. The box is adorned with intricate designs and has a beautiful antique style that will surely catch the eye of any collector. The box is branded with International Silver and has a composition of sterling silver. It is a perfect item for antique collectors who are looking for unique and rare pieces. This cigarette box is a great conversation starter and will surely impress anyone who sees it. Sold “AS IS”; no returns accepted. ——————— History; Antique “inked” silver cigarette boxes typically refer to boxes that feature engraved designs or inscriptions, often highlighted with a contrasting dark finish. The process of “inking” involves filling engraved or etched patterns in silver with a dark substance, enhancing the visibility of the design and giving the piece a rich, detailed appearance. Here’s how it works: Methodology: 1.Design and Engraving: •The surface of the silver box is engraved, etched, or chased with patterns, monograms, or decorative motifs. This can be done by hand or with mechanical tools. •Common designs include floral patterns, geometric shapes, or custom inscriptions. 2.Application of Ink or Enamel: •A dark material, often black lacquer, enamel, or a special oxidation solution, is applied to the engraved areas. This is sometimes called “niello” when using a specific black metallic alloy. 3.Removal of Excess Material: •The excess dark material is carefully wiped away, leaving it only in the recessed areas. This creates a sharp contrast between the shiny silver surface and the darkened design. 4.Polishing: •The box is polished to enhance its luster while maintaining the contrast provided by the inked areas. 5.Sealing (Optional): •Some pieces are sealed with a protective coating to prevent tarnishing or damage to the design. Purpose: •The inking technique enhances the visual appeal of the silver cigarette box, making it both functional and decorative. •It also allows for personalization, such as family crests or initials. Historical Context: •This technique was popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, especially during the Art Nouveau and Art Deco periods. •It was a common method used in luxury items, emphasizing craftsmanship and fine detail. ————- Craftsmen of this antique artwork faced so many dangers and risks in making ! Makers of antique “inked” silver cigarette boxes faced various occupational dangers stemming from the materials, processes, and techniques involved in their craft. These risks were heightened by the lack of modern safety protocols in workshops during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Here’s an overview of the hazards: 1. Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals •Oxidizing Agents: The darkening or “inking” process often involved chemicals like sulfur compounds (e.g., liver of sulfur) to create a patina in the engraved silver. Prolonged exposure to fumes could cause respiratory problems, skin irritation, and eye damage. •Enamel or Lacquer Inks: When inks or lacquers were used for inking, they contained solvents and pigments that could be toxic, leading to respiratory and nervous system issues when inhaled over time. •Cleaning Agents: Strong acids or alkalis were often used to clean and prepare the silver surface, posing risks of burns and inhalation damage. 2. Risk of Metal Toxicity •Silver Dust and Particles: During engraving, chasing, or polishing, fine silver dust could be released into the air. Inhaling this dust posed risks of respiratory conditions like pneumoconiosis. •Lead Contamination: Some inks and enamels used lead-based compounds, which could cause chronic lead poisoning, affecting the nervous system, kidneys, and blood. 3. Physical Hazards •Repetitive Motion Injuries: Engraving and detailed work required precision and repetitive hand movements, leading to conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome and chronic joint pain. •Sharp Tools and Equipment: The use of engraving tools and polishing machines posed risks of cuts, punctures, or abrasions. Improper handling of these tools could lead to infections or long-term injuries. 4. Fire and Explosive Risks •Flammable Materials: Inking compounds, solvents, and lacquers were often flammable. Improper storage or handling could result in fires or explosions in workshops. •Open Flames: The use of open flames or kilns (for annealing or enameling) in close proximity to volatile substances increased the likelihood of accidents. 5. Poor Workshop Ventilation •Many workshops lacked proper ventilation systems, leading to prolonged exposure to toxic fumes, dust, and chemicals. This could result in chronic health issues for artisans over time. 6. Lack of Protective Equipment •Artisans in the 19th and early 20th centuries rarely had access to modern protective equipment such as gloves, masks, or goggles. As a result, they were more vulnerable to chemical burns, eye injuries, and inhalation of harmful substances. 7. Economic and Social Pressures •Long Working Hours: Artisans often worked long hours to meet high demand, especially during the peak of cigarette box popularity in the late 19th century. Exhaustion increased the likelihood of accidents. •Low Wages: Many artisans worked in small workshops or for larger firms under poor conditions, leaving them unable to afford medical care or protective measures.

Price: 732 USD

Location: Amman

End Time: 2025-01-26T22:42:49.000Z

Shipping Cost: 24.95 USD