Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
A beautifully preserved Art Deco tobacco jar made of dark brown mottled Bakelite, featuring a distinctive stepped lid and geometric textured panels. Produced under the brand name 'Cosehl' by the British Co-operative Wholesale Society, this piece represents the pinnacle of early synthetic design applied to everyday domestic luxury.
Story
In 1930s Britain, the Co-operative Wholesale Society introduced 'Cosehl' to bring high-style Art Deco design to working-class homes. This tobacco jar used cutting-edge Bakelite to mimic expensive exotic hardwoods.
Maker / Origin
The Co-operative Wholesale Society (CWS) was a massive British consumer cooperative movement that manufactured everything from soap to furniture. In the late 1920s and 1930s, they embraced the plastic revolution, establishing their own molding facilities to produce stylish, affordable household goods under the 'Cosehl' brand name, which combined 'Co-op' and 'shell'.
Condition & Value
The exterior appears to be in very good condition with a nice, unoxidized luster and no obvious chips or deep scratches visible in the photo. The presence of the original interior damper lid (often missing) and any hidden hairline cracks in the threaded rim would significantly affect the final value.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.