Description
German Silver and Enamel Scene
From our Cigarette Case collection, we are delighted to offer this Silver and Enamel Cigarette Case depicting Wotan and Brünnhilde. The Cigarette Case cast in 800. German silver depicts a dramatic illustration of Wotan (Odin) and Brünnhilde (The Valkyrie) inspired by Richard Wagner’s Der Ring des Nibelungen. The enamel beautifully depicts the moment Wotan places his Valkyrie daughter Brünnhilde into an enchanted sleep as punishment for defying his command. Surrounded by a ring of fire, Brünnhilde lies in eternal slumber, protected until a worthy hero dares to cross the flames and awaken her. The Cigarette Case opens via the push button thumb tab and is fully silver gilt to the interior. The thumb tab is hallmarked 800 for 800/1000 fineness silver and with the German Halbmond und Reichskrone or Crescent and crown. The Silver and Enamel Cigarette Case depicting Wotan and Brünnhilde dates to the turn of the 20th century circa 1900.
Wotan (Odin) and Brünnhilde
This dramatic scene illustrates Wotan (Odin) and Brünnhilde, inspired by Richard Wagner’s Der Ring des Nibelungen, specifically Die Walküre (The Valkyrie). The image captures the powerful moment when Wotan, the chief of the gods, places his Valkyrie daughter Brünnhilde into an enchanted sleep as punishment for defying his command. Surrounded by a ring of fire, Brünnhilde lies in eternal slumber, protected until a worthy hero dares to cross the flames and awaken her. Wotan’s spear, Gungnir, symbolises his divine authority, while the fire represents both punishment and protection. This iconic depiction is a testament to Wagner’s influence on art and the enduring power of Norse mythology.
Richard Wagner (1813–1883)
nicknamed The Master of Epic Opera was a groundbreaking German composer, conductor, and playwright, best known for his powerful operas that transformed the landscape of classical music. His most famous work, Der Ring des Nibelungen (The Ring of the Nibelung), is a monumental four-opera cycle inspired by Norse and Germanic mythology. Wagner was renowned for his innovative use of leitmotifs—musical themes associated with specific characters or ideas—and his ability to blend music and drama seamlessly. His influence extended beyond music into art, literature, and even political thought, making him one of the most impactful composers of the 19th century. His operas continue to captivate audiences with their dramatic storytelling, rich orchestration, and grand, larger-than-life characters.
MEASUREMENTS
9.5cm High x 7cm Wide x 1.5cm Deep (3.74 x 2.76 x 0.6 Inches)
CONDITION
Very Good condition with wear consistent with age
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