18 Karat Gold, Silver and Colored Stone Cigarette Case, France

Featuring a map with colored stone cabochons accenting various cities, gross weight approximately 124 dwts, numbered 9803, with French assay and workshop mark; circa 1940.

In good condition. The outside of the case displays minor scratching to the surface, commensurate with use, with a few more heavy scratches and small dents on the sides and bottom. There is slight tarnishing where the gems were inset. The hinge on the case works well and the case closes easily. Slight discoloration is found where the gems are inset, most likely due to torch heat. The inside is plated with gold and the plate has begun to wear away in the corners. The sapphires on the top are a slightly greenish blue, the emeralds are a very slightly bluish green and the rubies are a very slightly purplish red and all are slightly to moderately included but are of such a small size this is not noticeable. Inscribed with the following names of cities on their corresponding location on a map: New-York, Dublin, Londres, Lisbonne, Madrid, Fez, Alger, Tunise, Rome, Geneve, Paris, Bruxelles, Berlin, Copenhague, Vienne, Varsovie,Sofia, Athenes, Bucarest, Kiev, Moscow, Petrograd, Arkhangel, Stockholm, Oslo.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion. Illustrations in the catalogue may not be actual size. Prospective purchasers are reminded that, unless the catalogue description specifically states that a stone is natural, we have assumed that some form of treatment may have been used and that such treatment may not be permanent. Our presale estimates reflect this assumption.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.