Vintage Art Deco Cigarette Case, Cream and Dark Lacquer, Geometric Cartouche, NOS, Attributed to JUST

A pale rectangle of light, held within a dark lacquer border.

This new old stock cigarette case has a quietly architectural presence: a warm cream panel framed by fine metallic lines and a deep brown-to-black surround. A small dark rectangular cartouche, edged with nested metallic outlines, sits towards one end of the lid. The reverse is glossy and dark, allowing the front’s restrained geometry to take centre stage.

Inside, a bright gold-tone finish contrasts with the exterior, with a woven retaining band stretching across one compartment. The lacquer finish, rather than enamel, is identified by Vaen’kai Vault. The seller’s research attributes this example to JUST, Spain, circa the 1930s; that maker, origin, and dating are presented as research attributions rather than independently verified markings in these photographs.

The Particulars

• Type: Vintage Art Deco cigarette case
• Maker attribution: JUST, according to the seller’s research
• 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
• Exterior finish: Lacquer, not enamel, as identified by the seller
• Design: Warm cream panel, dark surround and reverse, fine metallic borders, and rectangular geometric cartouche
• Interior: Gold-tone finish with woven retaining band
• Metal composition: Unconfirmed; no precious-metal or gilding claim
• Condition: Very minimal age-related exterior wear, with localised marks to fittings visible in close-up
• Included: Case only; photographic props excluded

Its unused stock history does not mean newly made or entirely untouched by time. Fine surface marks and slight rubbing are visible on the glossy exterior and decorative borders. The hinge close-up shows localised finish wear exposing silver-coloured areas, and the woven band has some loose fibres at its edge. The interior remains notably bright, with small localised marks. Please study the close-ups alongside the overall views.

The case is photographed open and closed. Catch strength and the retaining band’s remaining elasticity have not been established, and no particular cigarette or card capacity is promised.

A stored pocket relic for a keeper drawn to the measured geometry of Art Deco, its cream-and-dark contrast as compelling on a cabinet shelf as in the hand. Carefully nestled in its treasure coffin, a vault relic from Vaen’kai Vault.