[WARSAW] Szwalbe Sach and Ska, early 20th century, Black Cylinder, Shapoklak

Elegant men's cylinder with original case. The product of a Warsaw tailor's shop offering custom-made luxury clothing. Cylinder with a classic, high and cylindrical form, with a slightly widened brim. The outer surface is smooth, with a subtle sheen, in deep black. A silk ribbon runs around the base of the headpiece, formed into a simple knot. The brim is even, flatly shaped, with a gently curled edge. The cylinder comes with a rectangular case made of cardboard, covered with black veneer, closed with a metal latch, equipped with a carrying handle. The interior of the cylinder contains a company tag with an inscription informing about the offer of "English pallets and suits ready-made and on obstruction" along with the address at Senatorska Street in Warsaw.
Silk felt (cylinder plush), silk (ribbon and trims), bookbinding cardboard, fabric (case), metal elements (snap)
Condition as shown in the photos.
Size: 33 x 27 cm - case; 30.5 x 13 cm - cylinder (when unfolded).

Cylinder is one of the most recognizable elements of men's closet at the turn of the 20th century, being a symbol of elegance, social status and belonging to the upper urban strata. In the realities of Warsaw at the beginning of the 20th century, this type of headgear was an integral part of formal attire - worn during ceremonies, official visits and social events.
The Szwalbe, Sach and S-ka Tailor's Warehouse was one of Warsaw's renowned establishments offering luxury clothing, both ready-made and made-to-order. Mention of "English palettes and suits" indicates inspiration from British fashion, which at the time was considered the benchmark of men's elegance.
The preserved set - a cylinder with its original case - is a valuable example of the material culture of the urban elite of the Kingdom of Poland, and at the same time a testimony to the high level of Warsaw's tailoring craft and luxury clothing trade before World War I.