A fine hand engraved sterling silver cigar or cigarette box in its original fitted presentation box.  The box is one of the finest quality silver boxes made, complete with fitted cedar wood lining.  This was done so in order to help keep the tobacco fresh.  The inside of the lid of the box is fully gold plated, gilt washed.  This was done in order to prevent oxidation from the reaction with the tobacco. The sides of the box are detailed with fine engine turning, and the top is resplendent with the most exquisite hand engraved scene of the River Thames and the Houses of Parliament, in London.  It is one of the finest examples of hand engraving one can find.  The sky appears to move when the box is tilted back and forth.  

The box was made by Asprey and Co. of London.  The finest maker and retailer of home wares in England, at the time.  It has a full set of London control assay marks for being made in London in 1954.  The engraving was applied later to the making of the box and is signed by the artist and dated to 1957.  The box comes in the original signed Asprey fitted red leather presentation box.  It is in perfect condition, free from any damage at all, having never been used.