These desktop cigarette boxes probably date from the 1930s.
It is in fine vintage condition with no major disfiguring damage which is remarkable given that it is now nearly 100 years old. The lid is a cream colour and the base is black tone. There is a tiny restored chip on the back of the box near the right-hand hinge - which I have photographed for your inspection. You never notice it when the box is on display - and I have it listed at a reduced price to reflect the wee repair.
It is made of an early hard plastic made from urea formaldehyde. It was made by the State Express Cigarette Company (England) - and their name is on the bottom of the box.
The lid is decorated with a pressed image of a Classical Procession with Greek Figures Dancing and Playing Ancient Instruments. They are all finely modelled with great attention to detail. There are decorative bands at the top and bottom with hunting horns, musical pipes, and tambourines, all as photographed. The sides of the box have wide decorative ribs or rippled vertical banding all the way around.
The lid is hinged at the back. The hinges are stable and without any issues, except the tiny repair on the box back panel near the right-hand side. 1930s interior - they would have been filled with cigarettes and offered to your guests attending functions or celebrations taking part in your house.
Dimensions: 12 cm (4 3/4 inches) x 8 cm (3 1/2 inches). The height is 5.5 cm ( 2 1/4 inches).
This is a lovely example - and apart from the little condition issue. It is nearly as good as the day that it was made.
UK Postage will be with the Royal Mail. This will cost £4.95 and applied to your order at the checkout.