An antique lithographed tin cigar box imitating a wood-grain design, produced for Ernest Tinchant's "Melior" brand in Antwerp. The lid features a flail-winged eagle perched on a medallion inscribed "Ernest Tinchant - Antwerp," surrounded by representations of trade medals symbolizing the brand's awards. The inside of the lid retains a beautiful chromolithograph with the same motif, enhanced with gold tones typical of late 19th-century cigar boxes. The sides are inscribed "Cigars Melior" and "Ernest Tinchant." This piece is a fine example of a cigar box intended for tobacconists or retail outlets, and is now sought after by collectors of tobacconist memorabilia and lithographed boxes.
✦ Provenance: Ernest Tinchant, Antwerp (Belgium) ✦ Estimated period: Circa 1900 ✦ Dimensions: approx. 23.5 x 12.5 x 6 cm ✦ Material: Lithographed sheet metal ✦ Condition: Used condition with wear and rubbing on the outer lithography; traces of oxidation on the edges; interior of the lid well preserved with chromolithography in good condition and still vivid; old patina consistent with age.
Beautiful decorative Tabaciana box, prized for its iconography of medals and eagle, ideal for a collection of antique cigar boxes or tobacco advertising items.
