An unusual early 20^th century Iraqi silver and niello cigarette case, Basra or Omara after 1934

of curved rectangular with rounded corners. The front with a map of Syria and Iraq titled Mediterranean Pipeline 1931-1934. The obverse with a scene of the Abu Hanifa al in Nu'man, Baghdad, a dhow sailing boat and two palm trees. The interior engraved Sir A.F to the interior.

Length – 11.3 cm / 4.5 inches

Weight – 146 grams / 4.69 ozt

The initials may refer to Sir Archibald Percival Wavell, 1st Earl Wavell, GCB, GCSI, GCIE, CMG, MC, KStJ, PC (1883-1950)