WMF Silver Plated Jugendstil Cigarette Case, Berlin Roller Skaters

Description A rare Jugendstil cigarette case by WMF featuring a detailed Berlin skating scene, circa 1903 to 1910. From our Cigarette Cases collection, we are pleased to offer this rare silver plated cigarette case by WMF, dating to the early 20th century. The case is of slim rectangular form, silver plated over nickel silver (Neusilber), with a front panel featuring a detailed relief scene of three men roller skating in a city square. Dressed in period attire with four-wheeled skates, the figures are captured mid-motion before the Victory Column in Berlin (Siegessäule), a notable imperial monument completed in the 19th century and a recognisable landmark even today. The interior retains its original elasticated ribbons designed to hold cigarettes in place. The exterior base is struck with multiple WMF marks, including the square WMF ostrich mark used between 1903 and 1910, the letter N for Neusilber (nickel silver), I/O indicating standard thickness silver plating, and OX denoting an oxidised finish, a darkened patina typical of WMF surface treatment in this period. A rare surviving example of early 20th century WMF smoking accessories, this piece combines Jugendstil design sensibility with social and urban iconography of pre-war Berlin. More about the Maker WMF (Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik) Founded in 1853 in Geislingen, Germany, WMF (Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik) grew from a small metalworking studio into one of the world’s most important manufacturers of decorative metalware. Known for their refined Jugendstil designs and high quality silver plated objects, WMF produced an extraordinary range of household and luxury items during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Under the direction of Albert Mayer, and through the acquisition of renowned European workshops, WMF became synonymous with the Art Nouveau movement and exported their works internationally. Today, WMF remains an enduring name in both antique and design circles, recognised for craftsmanship, innovation, and style. For further information please see our makers and retailers page on WMF. What is the Victory Column? Victory Column is a monument in Berlin, Germany which was designed by Heinrich Strack after 1864 in commemoration to the Prussian victory in the Second Schleswig War. By the time it was inaugurated on the 2nd of September 1873 Prussia had also defeated Austria and its German allies in the Austro-Prussian War (1866) and France in the Franco-Prussian War (1870-71), giving the statue a new purpose. Different from the original plans, these later victories in the unification wars inspired the addition of the bronze sculpture of Victoria, the Roman goddess of victory designed by Friedrich Drake. What is Silver Plate? is a term used when a metal object is coated in a thin layer of silver. The base of the object will be made from a metal such as brass and then a thin layer of Silver is applied to the entire exterior giving it the visual desire of silver. Silver Plate objects contain different hallmarks to Solid Silver and often do not have any hallmarks at all. Measurements 9.5cm High x 8.5cm Wide x 2cm Deep Condition Very Good, surface wear and scratching consistent with age WHY BUY FROM JACKSONS ANTIQUE? At Jacksons Antique, we are a small family-run business with over 10 years of experience in the fine antiques trade. We are proud members of LAPADA (The Association of Art & Antiques Dealers) and CADA (The Cotswold Art & Antique Dealers’ Association), trusted by collectors, interior designers, and private clients worldwide. Every piece we offer is individually sourced, carefully researched, and fully authenticated, accompanied by a certificate of authenticity. We provide insured worldwide shipping and secure checkout via Stripe, a global payments provider trusted by companies including Amazon and Booking.com. With every order, you will receive our latest printed product guide, a certificate of authenticity, and full tracking details so you can follow your item from dispatch to delivery. For complete peace of mind, we also offer a no-hassle money-back guarantee. We provide flexible layaway options and a level of personal service that larger retailers simply cannot match. When you buy from Jacksons Antique, you are supporting sustainable, environmentally conscious collecting and helping to preserve historic objects rather than contribute to mass production. Sign up to our free monthly newsletter to enjoy ten percent off your first online purchase.