The following treasure is from the living estate of Ailene & Buddy Ford; noted dealers and lifelong collectors of valuable antique & vintage heirlooms. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx The AEAA is extremely pleased to present this lot representing an ornate & gorgeous, 1890s matched sterling silver and 14k gold cigarette and and match holders in a rare sharkskin locking case. This exceptional gentlemans set is by the Joseph Seymour Mfg. Co. between 1898 and 1905, and features a hammered sterling pattern with 14 kt gold over panels. The highlights and Greek key design are excellent. Our handsome kit weighs 138.3 grams (total weight including sharkskin case is 14 oz.), measures 6 x 5 x 1.25 inches thick, and is in VG condition with wear to the case & minor tarnish. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx. Joseph Seymour began his silver career in Utica, N.Y. in 1835, working independently as a silversmith and jeweler until 1844, moving to Syracuse around 1842. he became a partner in Willard & Hawley in 1846. Name changed to Norton & Seymour (1849), Norton Seymour & Co (1854), and finally Joseph Seymour & Co in 1857 until 1870. In that year, Joseph Seymour & Son was formed with the addition of Joseph Seymour, Jr., and the partnership remained until 1879, when second son Edward G. Seymour, and investor George F. Comstock joined the firm, with it becoming Joseph Seymour & Sons. Joseph Seymour & Sons remained an entity until 1887, the time of Joseph Seymours passing, at which point the firm became the Joseph Seymour & Sons Co. The company was incorporated as Joseph Seymour Manufacturing Co. in 1898, but only survived until 1905.

XA - B208 - very good - has some wear and minor tarnish