This beautiful and finely crafted French Art Nouveau silver cigarette case is made circa 1890 by Charles Murat. The piece is embossed with sprigs of mistletoe on both sides with a gilt-wash interior. Stamped with boar small guarantee mark used between 1838-1962. The cigarette case would originally come with a vesta case as a set where you would find marks for Charles Murat 'CM'. 

'In ancient times, the Druids associated Mistletoe with vivacity, because the plant miraculously stayed green and blossomed even during the winter. They also believed it could perform miracles and used it as medicine to encourage fertility.'

PERIOD: Circa 19th century

MEASUREMENTS: The vesta case measures 8.5 cm x 8.5 cm & weighs approx. 91 grams.

CONDITION: Some surface marks and tarnishing commensurate with age. Minor dings on the back of the case. Otherwise good antique condition