Edward F. Caldwell & Co An ebony and silvered metal cigarette humidor New York, early 20th century

compartmentalized interior, the inner lid with engraved signature E. F. Caldwell & Co. Inc. New York.

Overall in good condition. The ebony veneer of the lid with extensive age cracks and two veneer losses (one to front left hand side, the other to back left hand side of the lid). There is another loss to the veneer located to the front right side of the box. Each loss is approximately 1 1/2 inch long by 1/4 in wide. The hinge formerly located to the left side is lacking. The bottom of the box will need to be reglued. Overall with the usual minor scratches, dents and nicks to veneers and carcass consistent with age and use. Tarnishing and dirt to silvered decorative elements.
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.
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.

From its establishment in 1895, Edward F. Caldwell and Company of New York ranked among the leading American designers of light fixtures, objects of virtue, decorative works of art and often, as in the present lot, utilitarian decorative objects using expensive exotic veneers and intricate applied neo-renaissance decoration.
In the late 1880s he met his future partner, Victor F. von Lossberg. The two acquired their own foundry in 1901 at 38 West Fifteenth Street.