Outstanding painting on this lacquer cigar (SIGAR) box / case, shaped like a spectacles case. The painting is almost identical to one found in Godden's book on Minton, page 97, entitled, ARABIA. While most of these cigar cases were done in Germany, this one could be either German or Russian (see below). Dates to mid 19th century.

Measures 5 1/8inches long and 2 7/8inches wide.

Rectangular with canted corners. Back is black lacquer with gold SIGAR written amidst delicate scrolls. Gilding is largely worn. The front is spectacular: it is a handpainted scene of Rebecca at the well - actually a lady with a jug. Extremely beautiful oriental face under a rich turquoise and white silk turban. A red cloak, hinting at the important home she comes from falls off her shoulders and is balanced by the ruby bracelets around her arm. The condition of the entire front is very good with no wear to the gilding and paint. The quality of the painting is vastly superior to any other box like this I have seen.
The back and front lacquer boards are held together by leather folding sides.

Originally, we thought the box was Russian because of the spelling of the word Sigar. However, the lable inside the box is  the mark for Johann-Paul Hahn of Gostenhof-Nurnberg, which makes the piece German, around 1840.

Thanks to Victoria for her help in identifying the maker.

Click HERE to ask Brenda a question about this item.