A Dunhill "Carlton" table lighter in chrome plated brass with a ceramic hand painted body.  This special version of the classic petrol 'lift arm' table lighter model which was introduced by Dunhill in 1928 and remained very much a strong part of the collection until the switch to gas in the 1960's. This example first appeared in the Dunhill catalogue in 1957.

This was a rare piece for Dunhill.  They partnered with the English ceramic company to produce the bodies, and hand paint the glaze.  Carlton Ware was founded in Stoke on Trent, the pottery capital of England at this time, in 1890.  They are perhaps best known for making the ceramic figures for the Guinness Brewing company.

This model, the "Carlton", came in a variety of plain glazed colours, and then three different hand painted designs; a fish which was applied to a green glaze.  A pagoda design that was applied to either a black or burgundy glaze.  Finally this, the spider web. 

The base and top lift arm mechanism are all made of  solid brass and chrome plated.   The body is in perfect condition, and retains a beautiful gloss finish to the glaze and the hand painted floral and web scenes remain perfect and fully in tact. To fill the lighter, simply unscrew the center piece on the base and fill with conventional lighter fuel.  The piece sparks well, and is in perfect working order.  The lighter was made in England circa 1950's.