Vintage Art Deco Cigarette Case, Brown and Cream Lacquer, Linked Geometric Band, NOS, JUST

A procession of angular links traces its way across warm brown lacquer.

This new old stock cigarette case balances rich reddish-brown colour with pale cream side bands and a finely outlined geometric motif running along the front. Repeated rectangular links sit between parallel metallic lines, giving the glossy surface an architectural rhythm. The reverse is brown, with softly mottled tonal variation visible beneath the reflections.

The finish is lacquer, not enamel, as identified by Vaen’kai Vault. The seller’s research places this example in Spain, circa the 1930s. The previously supplied interior photographs of this linked-pattern example show a diamond-shaped JUST mark, a bright gold-tone interior, and a woven retaining band across one compartment. Origin and dating remain research attributions.

The Particulars

• Maker marking: JUST within a diamond-shaped outline, shown in the previously supplied interior photographs
• Type: Vintage Art Deco cigarette case
• Origin and period attribution: Spain, circa 1930s, according to the seller’s research
• Stock history: New old stock, represented by the seller as unused vintage inventory
• Finish: Lacquer rather than enamel, as identified by the seller
• Front: Reddish-brown ground, pale cream side bands, and linked rectangular geometric decoration
• Reverse: Glossy brown with softly mottled tonal variation
• Interior: Gold-tone finish with woven retaining band
• Metal composition: Unconfirmed; no precious-metal or gilding claim
• Condition: Very minimal overall exterior age wear, with surface scratches visible in close-up
• Included: Case only; photographic props excluded

The exterior retains a notably glossy appearance. The earlier close-ups supplied for this design show fine scratches and a more concentrated cluster of crossing surface scratches on the brown reverse. Small marks and localised rubbing are also visible around the edges and metallic decoration. The interior photographs show a bright gold-tone finish with a few dark specks and small marks. The woven retaining band remains present; its remaining elasticity has not been established.

NOS describes unused vintage inventory, not newly manufactured or entirely blemish-free condition. The case has been photographed open and closed, but catch strength and exact cigarette or card capacity have not been tested.

A quietly graphic pocket relic for a keeper drawn to warm colour, angular ornament, and the small considered objects of another age. Carefully nestled in its treasure coffin, a vault relic from Vaen’kai Vault.