The work of virtuosos

Designed to be beautiful as well as functional, 20th-century objects of vertu range from cigarette carriers to vanity cases, and were made by the greatest jewellery houses for the most fashionable women of the day.

'Objects of vertu (also spelled as virtu) are named as such for the virtuosity of their craftsmanship. They usually take the form of small boxes or containers made of precious metals such as silver or gold. The finest examples often feature enamel or are mounted with gems.' - Jill Waddell, a senior specialist in the Silver department at Christie’s.