A very rare Art Deco sterling silver and solid eighteen carat gold petrol wick lighter. This is a unique prototype or special order lighter from Cartier, as was sometimes the case during this period where wealthy and famous clients would work with the designers to produce memorable individual works of art. This lighter features unusual silver nails or studs set through the gold body on both the top and bottom of the lighter, and the main sterling body features a handsome vertical engine turned pattern. The lighter is in perfect working condition only needing petrol for use. The piece has French control hallmarks for both gold and silver, and is marked three times on base and and filler and flint screws. The reason for this is that it is not vermeil (sterling with gold plating) but solid gold pieces worked onto the sterling frame. The Cartier serial number can still be found stamped on bottom. The lighter also comes in its original Cartier box where it has sat for a long time oxidizing the silk and the suede in both the top and bottom. Made in France, circa 1930.
