A striking early 20th-century gold cheroot or cigar case by Franz Hiess & Söhne of Vienna. The rectangular case is decorated with an elephant plaque set with diamonds and a ruby eye, framed by a border of rose-cut diamonds. A calibre-cut synthetic ruby thumbpiece adds a further decorative accent.
Signed ‘Franz Hiess u. Söhne Wien’ and bearing Austrian marks, the case tests as 14-carat gold. All stones are present and securely set, with some diamonds displaying fluorescence. Light surface scratches and wear are consistent with use, while the hinges and thumbpiece remain functional.
Details
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Maker: Franz Hiess & Söhne, Vienna
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Period: Circa 1905–1925
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Type: Cheroot or cigar case
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Design: Diamond-set elephant plaque with ruby eye
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Gemstones: Diamonds and synthetic ruby
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Metal: Tests as 14-carat gold
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Marks: Signed ‘Franz Hiess u. Söhne Wien’; Austrian marks
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Dimensions: Approx. 8.40 × 4.50cm
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Gross weight: 60.00g
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Condition: Good, with light surface scratches and wear; hinges and thumbpiece functioning
An impressive Viennese gold accessory, distinguished by its playful elephant motif and richly embellished surface.
