Mermaid Relief Lighter Appraisal

Stussy Chrome Lighter with Mermaid Relief

This item is a Stussy-branded lighter, characterized by its polished chrome finish and a distinctive relief sculpture of a mermaid. The lighter features a standard elongated rectangular body, typical of a 'mini BIC' type lighter, encased in a custom metal sleeve. The mermaid figure is depicted in a classic Art Nouveau or Art Deco style, with flowing hair and a detailed, scaled tail that culminates in a prominent shell-like base where she appears to be emerging from water. The relief is highly detailed, showcasing the curves and textures of the mermaid's form. The material appears to be a polished silver-toned metal, possibly chrome-plated brass or a similar alloy, giving it a reflective, mirror-like surface. The top portion of the lighter reveals the striking mechanism, identifiable by the red plastic ignition button and flint wheel assembly, confirming its functionality as a lighter and suggesting it's designed to house a disposable lighter insert. There are no visible major cracks, dents, or significant wear on the metal casing, which appears to be in good to very good condition. The craftsmanship of the mermaid relief suggests a cast or sculpted design, applied to the lighter, rather than being an integrated part of the lighter's core structure. Given the Stussy branding (as per additional context) and its aesthetic, it likely dates from the late 20th or early 21st century, aligning with contemporary streetwear and accessory trends that often incorporate nostalgic or artistic elements.