This antique cheroot or cigar holder originates from the late 19th century, crafted with a meerschaum figure of a lady accompanied by a dog. The intricate carving showcases the refined skills of artisans from the period, likely hailing from Austria or Germany, where meerschaum pipes and holders were traditionally produced. The piece features detailed visual elements, with the lady and dog intricately depicted, adding a touch of elegance and charm to the item. The meerschaum material, known for its lightweight and porous characteristics, offers a unique visual appeal with its smooth finish and subtle colour variations.
Condition Report
This cheroot holder is in good condition, presenting wear consistent with its age and the nature of its material. The meerschaum shows some patina, a common occurrence with antique items, contributing to its historical character. The carving retains its clarity, with no significant chips or cracks visible in the images. Some minor surface scratches may be present, typical for an item of this age and use. The holder's structure remains intact, indicating it has been well-preserved over the years. Overall, it maintains a robust appearance, ready to be appreciated by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Dimensions
Weight: 20gm, Length: 11.5cm, Width: 3cm, Height: 3cm.
An Elegant Smoking Accessory
This cheroot holder was originally intended as a refined smoking accessory, offering a touch of sophistication to the smoking experience. During the late 19th century, such items were popular among the upper classes, serving both a practical purpose and as conversation pieces. The intricacy of the carving would have been an element of interest, likely to attract admiration from guests. These holders were not only functional, allowing for the smooth inhalation of smoke, but also collectible items that reflected the owner's taste and status.
Victorian Era Craftsmanship
The cheroot holder is a fine example of Victorian era craftsmanship, where the emphasis was on detailed and elaborate designs. During this period, meerschaum was a popular medium due to its ability to be intricately carved and its suitability for smoking accessories. The style reflects the period's fascination with detailed, miniature sculptures, often depicting figures or scenes. The Victorian era was marked by a blend of traditional and eclectic styles, with artisans often borrowing elements from different cultures and epochs to create unique pieces, as seen in this holder's design.
The Art of Meerschaum Carving
Crafted from meerschaum, a soft white mineral, this cheroot holder demonstrates the intricate carving techniques of the time. Meerschaum carving is a delicate art, requiring precision and patience, as the material is both fragile and porous. The craftsmen of the late 19th century were adept at creating detailed figures, like the lady and dog depicted here, which added both decorative and functional value to smoking accessories. The process involved careful shaping and carving, followed by a polishing stage to enhance the material's natural lustre, resulting in a smooth finish.
Attributed to European Makers
While the exact maker of this cheroot holder is unknown, it is likely attributed to European origins, specifically from regions like Austria or Germany, renowned for their quality meerschaum products. During the late 19th century, these areas were known for producing some of the finest meerschaum pipes and holders, with workshops dedicated to perfecting the craft. The tradition of meerschaum carving in Europe is a well-documented practice, with artisans passing down their skills through generations, each piece reflecting the unique characteristics of its creator.
Collected by Enthusiasts of Smoking Accessories
This cheroot holder is a sought-after piece among collectors of smoking accessories, particularly those fascinated by the Victorian era and its associated craftsmanship. Collectors are often drawn to the uniqueness of each meerschaum item, as no two pieces are exactly alike due to the natural variations in the material and the individual artisan's touch. This type of antique holds historical significance, offering insight into the social customs and material culture of the late 19th century. It is valued for its artistry, historical context, and the skill demonstrated in its creation.