What-is-it question CXII.

[2209patrick]

This sterling box was made by W.R. Smiley and is hallmarked London 1855.
It is 5 inches (12.70 cm.) long, 2.5 inches (6.35 cm.) wide, and 1.25 inches (3.18 cm.) deep.
Besides the two compartments visible in the picture, there is also a smaller compartment on the base.

What was this box meant to hold?



Pat.
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[2209patrick]

Here's a clue:
A man would have used this, probably when travelling.
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[Doos]

Hi,

A pipe box? Or did you name the image that way to trick us?

Alain
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[dognose]

Hi Pat,

A smokers companion? With sections for tobacco, a small pipe and vestas.

Trev.
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[2209patrick]

Well done Alain and Trev.

This is a pipe box or smoker's companion.
The book calls it a tobacco-pipe case.

Trev's description of the contents is 100% accurate.
The pipe back then was likely a medium size clay.

Alain, you bring up an interesting point.
I try to use terms that are accurate, but don't give the "What-is-it" away immediately.
Yet, at the same time, choose words that don't steer everyone in the wrong direction.
Since posting all these What-is-it questions, I've found that finding these nuetral words is not always easy.
I try to be careful and fair.

Pat.
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[dognose]

Hi Pat,

Would it hold just one pipe, or two? I was thinking that knowing the fragility of clay pipes, that it was important to have a spare.
You settle down to have a well earned smoke and.... how frustrating!

Regards Trev.
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[2209patrick]

Hi Trev.

You have a really good point there. Clay pipes are very fragile.
Would make sense to have a spare.

Clay pipes back then were a lot smaller than todays briars and meerschaums. Maybe two clays would fit.
Can't say for sure, because this is the only picture provided.

Pat.
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