"The Proper Conduct Upon Leaving the Dinner Table"

"When fruit has been taken and a glass or two of wine passed round, the time will have arrived when the hostess...rises and gives her guests the signal to retire to the drawing room ... They now take but a brief interval for tobacco, talk and coffee in the smoking or billiards room before they rejoin the ladies." ~  from Mrs. Beeton's Book of Household Management

Found at market in the north of England, this handsome Antique English Oak Cigar Box would have been right at home in the well-appointed smoking room or study of an English country house.

Beautifully fashioned from richly grained oak, the rectangular box is ornamented with brass corner fittings, a decorative keyhole escutcheon and a charming script "Cigars" adorning its hinged lid. Inside, a divided compartment originally intended for storing cigars offers a wonderfully practical place for safekeeping all manner of modern necessities. We find this clever box ideal for tucking away spare keys, cufflinks, a watch, a cell phone, bar tools or even the remote control, keeping everyday essentials neatly out of sight.

Equal parts handsome and useful, this exceptional box promises to bring a little antique warmth and debonair charm to your home.

Strictly one-of-a-kind and subject to prior sale. Measures 10.5"L x 6.25"W x 3.9"H. In very good antique condition with the expected discreet signs of age and use.