Antiques and the Arts Book Review


Antique Cigar Cutters and Lighters
By Jerry Terranova and Douglas Congdon-Martin
Schiffer Books, 176 pages, 613 color photographs, value guide, $69.95 hardcover

Unless you've been on a desert island somewhere, you have noticed the resurgent popularity of cigar smoking. So it's no surprise that collecting accessories from the golden age of cigar smoking Ï from the end of the Civil War until the explosive popularity of the cigarette in the 20th century Ï is growing in popularity, too. Hence, this timely new book from Jerry Terranova, who has been a collector for decades, and Douglas Congdon-Martin, who has written numerous books about antiques and collectibles. Readers may be astonished with the variety, inventiveness, and beauty of these utilitarian cigar accessories. The cutters range from simple vest pocket models to ingenious mechanical contraptions that would occupy a prominent place on the counter of the local tobacconist. The lighters range from coal oil dips to electric devices. They are sometimes cast as stunning figures or are elegantly formed lamps, using blown glass or pierced tin. More than 600 color photographs document these objects, accompanied by concise, informative descriptions. The text places the cutters in their historical context and contains helpful information for collectors. A value guide is included to make this a complete book for collectors.

Antique Cigar Cutters and Lighters