A fine late-19th century Russian 18 carat gold cigarette / vesta case

A fine late-19th century Russian 18 carat gold cigarette / vesta case,

by Nicols and Plinke, St. Petersburg, circa 1894,

rounded rectangular form, the flush hinged cover applied with the enamelled crown and cipher of His Imperial Highness The Grand Duke Michael of Russia, and with a moonstone thumb-piece, the side with a hinged vesta holder and striker, the end with a tinder cord and ring attachment, the interior of the cover inscribed, ' Cannes Golf Club, President's Prize Presented by H.I.H The Grand Duke Michael of Russia March 15th 1894', the base inscribed 'Won by A.D. Halford', length 9.5cm, approx. weight 161g.

The Grand Duke Michael of Russia founded the Cannes Golf Club (now called Cannes Old Course) in 1891, and also served as president of the club. The 9-hole course, also called the "Grand Duke" was the first course to be created at the club, and is one of the oldest courses in France. He and his wife were prominent figures in Cannes society and were also involved in the construction of the Russian Orthodox church in the town.