Cigarette Case, Ww1 Souvenir, Silver

CIGARETTE CASE, WORLD WAR I SOUVENIR
Sterling silver (925).
Front side: A cartridge bearing the initials "C.C." is at the center of the composition, surrounded by iconic attributes of the infantry of the time: cannonball, Adrian helmet, dagger, pickaxe, trumpet, and drum. In the background, a sturdy oak tree, symbolizing strength and victory, stands alongside an olive tree, evoking hope for peace.
Back side: Branches of oak and olive, intertwined in a knot, reveal a cartridge engraved with the inscription "31e infanterie, 1914-1917, Argonne, Vauquois, Somme". This inscription recalls the battles in which the regiment participated.
Interior: The interior of the case, lined with vermeil, is equipped with two elastic bands to hold the cigarettes in place.
A push button is used to open it.
The drum bears the signature "Maître".
Late 1910s.

Dimensions: 8 x 12.2 cm approx.
Weight : 206.6 g (silver, 925/1000).
Very good condition. But the push button is difficult to open.

History
This silver cigarette case, a true miniature masterpiece, is much more than a simple utilitarian object. It bears witness to the tumultuous history of the 31st Infantry Regiment, in particular its involvement in the battles of Argonne, Vauquois and the Somme. These three major conflicts marked the unity and courage of the soldiers of this regiment, whose memory this case perpetuates. Undoubtedly made at the request of a soldier or a loved one, it symbolizes both the memory of the fighting and the hope for a peaceful future. It is interesting to note that the 31st Infantry Regiment was not disbanded until 1940. Why then are only these three battles mentioned on the case? Several hypotheses can be considered: Symbolic importance: The battles of Argonne, Vauquois and the Somme are among the most infamous of the First World War. They were particularly memorable and may have been chosen for their strong symbolic charge. Period of manufacture: The case may have been made just after the Battle of the Somme, when memories of these battles were still very vivid. Personal connection: The soldier or family member who ordered the case may have had special connections with these three battles, which would explain their exclusive mention.

If you would like to know more about the history of the 31st Infantry Regiment, you can go here