Antique Sterling Silver Calling Card Case – Gifted to The Earl of Norbury, Christmas 1912
Step into the refined world of Edwardian and early Art Deco England with this superb sterling silver calling card case, an exceptional piece of social history steeped in aristocratic provenance.
The Earl of Norbury’s Calling Cards
The calling cards within are splendidly simple, reflecting the formal etiquette of the era: they display only the Earl’s title, name, and the name of his London club. Such cards were strategically unadorned, providing an elegant way to request a meeting or announce a visit. The club served as the practical address—enabling friends and contacts to know where the Earl might be reached, all while underscoring his place in elite social circles. This simplicity was a hallmark of taste, signalling both distinction and exclusivity.
About the Maker: Jay, Richard Attenborough & Co Ltd
Jay, Richard Attenborough & Co Ltd stood at the apex of London’s luxury trade from the turn of the 20th century until the early 1960s. Trading as “Goldsmiths, Diamond Merchants and Watchmakers,” and best known as antique silver dealers, their storied tradition began with Richard Attenborough & Co in 1796, later passing to James Charles Jay in 1887, and subsequently renaming in 1904.
Renowned for presentation cups, commemorative pieces, goldwork and medals—including the Miss World trophy in the 1950s—the firm maintained a reputation for fine design, craftsmanship, and an extensive archive of silverwork. Their hallmarked pieces are highly regarded by collectors and frequently sought after in today’s antique markets.
Why This Case is Special
Rarity: An early Art Deco piece by a recognised maker, with both hallmarks and provenance.
Historical Value: Directly linked to titled English nobility, complete with original cards.
Versatility: Equally at home as a collector’s display, a stylish business card holder, or a memorable heirloom.
Elegance: An authentic token of the social rituals, exclusivity, and craftsmanship of a bygone age—perfect for anyone who appreciates the artistry of silver and the romance of English history.
Condition: As part of the circular economy, this antique item has been pre-treasured and loved. As is typical for an item of this age, there are a few fine scratches on the silver, and an attractive patina that speaks to its history. These characteristics are commensurate with the age of this exquisitely sentimental antique item and do not detract from its overall beauty and charm. Instead, they add to its unique character and authenticity as a genuine piece of history.
A fabulous, conversation-starting accessory for the modern professional or the discerning collector—echoing the style and prestige of Edwardian London.
Antique Sterling Silver Curved Calling Card Case
Date & Hallmarks: Fully hallmarked for Chester, 1911, this card case exemplifies the dawn of the Art Deco movement, bridging the elegance of late Edwardian design with the crisp modernity that would define the 1920s.
Design: The case boasts a classic austere Art Deco style, with clean, sophisticated striped engraving and a distinctive shield-shaped cartouche. The cartouche is monogrammed with the "N" of its original owner, underscoring its bespoke nature, and was gifted by the mysterious "J.S.T".
Maker: Produced by the highly respected Jay, Richard Attenborough & Co Ltd, silversmiths and antique dealers of 142-144 Oxford Street, London—whose origins go back to 1796, and whose craftsmanship marked some of the finest silverwork in the early 20th century.
Original Ownership & Inscription: Presented as a Christmas gift in 1912, this piece carries the inscription “J.S.T to N XMAS 1912.” The “N” stands for The Earl of Norbury, a prominent English peer of the era. This touching personalisation adds deep historic charm.
Contents: Remarkably, the case still retains the Earl of Norbury’s own original calling cards—witnesses to the rituals of high society and personal connection, now ideal for holding the modern person’s business cards.
Dimensions: 8.8cm x 4.8cm
The cards contained within are 7.6cm x 3.8cm and can be obtained from various local printers like "Copycat" and online printers like zazzle.co.nz