This exquisite 925 sterling silver cigarette or playing card box was made in 1945 by the Inman Manufactory Co in Birmingham. A rare collector's item with an erotic pin-up motif by Alberto Vargas on a deep blue background. The image of a seductive pin-up girl from the 1940s/50s is flanked by the newspaper headline "Heat Wave". The inside of the tin is engraved with "Sheila, June 1950" and is in excellent original condition.
In the turmoil of the post-war period, as the world slowly recovered from the shadows of conflict, a work of art was created that captures both the elegance and playfulness of that era. It is a 925 sterling silver cigarette or playing card box made in 1945 by the renowned Inman Manufactory Co in Birmingham. This rare collector's item is characterised by a breathtaking erotic motif by none other than Alberto Vargas, a master of pin-up art. The design of the tin pays homage to the cultural trends of the 1940s and 1950s. The front of the tin is emblazoned with the image of a seductive pin-up girl, the sight of which attracts everyone's attention. The deep blue background contrasts impressively with the luminous depiction of the young woman, who lingers in a sensual pose. At her feet is a newspaper with the headline "Heat Wave", which not only refers to a heat wave, but also symbolises the social and cultural changes of the time. The inside of the tin contains another personal touch - an engraving with the words "Sheila, June 1950". This dedication adds a layer of intimacy and history that makes the piece even more valuable. The box is preserved in excellent, original condition, with only slight signs of use that tell of its past. This exquisite collector's item not only embodies the artistic spirit of Alberto Vargas, but also serves as a cultural artefact that reflects the aesthetics and zeitgeist of an era in which art and everyday life were uniquely fused. It is a testament to the human endeavour for beauty and a touch of escapism in a time of great change.
Dimensions & details - Sterling silver 925/- - Weight 190.08 g - 12 x 8.4 cm