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Vintage Cutlery Case for 12 Pieces Knives and Forks

Specifications:

Length: 275 mm
Width: 198 mm
Height: 27 mm
Capacity:
- Knives up to 172 mm
- Forks up to 160 mm

Description:

This vintage cutlery case is designed to hold 12 pieces of cutlery, specifically six knives and six forks. The case is made from wood and covered in a decorative exterior finish, featuring a hand-drawn gilt line around the perimeter of the lid. The exterior has two rear hinges and a front push-button opener, ensuring secure closure and easy access.

The interior of the case is elegantly lined:

Lid: The underside of the lid is lined with silk, adding a luxurious touch and protecting the cutlery from scratches. The interior hinges are concealed with silk strips, enhancing the aesthetic appeal.
Tray: The tray, shaped to securely hold the cutlery, is lined with velvet. This not only provides a snug fit for the cutlery but also adds a layer of protection and prevents tarnishing. The inner rims of the lid and tray are decorated with a thin, hand-drawn gilt line, complementing the exterior design.

Condition:

Fair with marks indicative of both age and usage. Some markings to interior silk lining on underside of lid where it has contacted the cutlery over time. The velvet lining in the tray has some usage marks. Split silk covering of the right hand hinge on interior.

Cutlery cases like this one were commonly used in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They were essential for both storage and transportation of valuable cutlery sets, often made of silver or other fine materials. The use of silk and velvet linings was typical, as these materials offered excellent protection against scratches and tarnishing, preserving the condition of the cutlery.

Such cases were often handcrafted, with attention to detail in both construction and decoration. The absence of maker's branding on this particular case suggests it could have been custom-made or produced by a smaller, perhaps less commercialized, workshop.

Materials:

Silk: Used for lining the underside of the lid and covering the interior hinges, silk is known for its smooth texture and protective qualities.
Velvet: Lining the tray, velvet provides a soft, cushioning surface that helps prevent damage to the cutlery.
Wood and Metal: The structural components of the case, including the hinges and push-button opener, are made from durable materials to ensure longevity.

This vintage cutlery case is an example of early 20th-century craftsmanship, designed to store and protect a set of 12 cutlery pieces. Its elegant materials and careful construction reflect the standards of quality from its time, making it not only a functional item but also a collectible piece of history. The fair condition with marks of age and usage adds to its vintage charm, offering a glimpse into its storied past.