Burnell and Rowe

Description

Here we have a very stylish Art Deco Sterling Silver Hip Flask from the 1920s. The hip flask is of an octagonal panelled design with broad engine turned panels alternating with plain narrow panels. The flask has a hinged lid with a twisting bayonet lock and is lined with cork. There are no initials or personalisation of any kind.

The hip flask was made in Birmingham by William Base & Sons and dates to 1927. It was retailed through Dimmer's of Southsea, near Portsmouth, a noted supplier to Royal Navy personnel. William Base founded his firm in the early 1900s, becoming William Base & Sons in 1921. They made smoking accessories, flasks, tableware, flatware, desk accessories and boxes of consistently good quality, all primarily aimed at wealthy gentlemen. The company remained in business into the early 1930s.

Condition is very good, with no dings or dents and just the superficial surface wear that has to be expected with use and the passage of time. The hinge and lock on the lid are in good working order. Please make sure to view all the photographs.

The hip flask is 10.7cm / 4.2ins high by 8.9cm / 3.5ins wide and 2.7cm / 1in deep. It weighs in at a substantial 146.8g / 5.18oz / 4.72toz of solid Sterling Silver.

The hallmarks, on the side and base of the flask, are nice and clear to read. They show the lion passant for Sterling Silver, the anchor assay mark for Birmingham, the date letter C for 1927 and the W.B & S makers' mark for William Base & Sons. The inside of the hinge has the retail mark Dimmer, Southsea.

Shipping in the UK is £13.00 by Royal Mail Special Delivery, which includes cover for the value of the hip flask.
Overseas customers, please ask us about shipping costs to your country before making a purchase.