Antique Sterling Silver Cylindrical Vesta Match Safe

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Description

Presenting a very rare and unusual antique sterling silver cylindrical "vesta" (named for the Roman goddess of the fire and … Read more Presenting a very rare and unusual antique sterling silver cylindrical "vesta" (named for the Roman goddess of the fire and hearth)* or match safe* with finely engraved foliate decoration, chained cap, and suspension loop. Remarkably still contains period matches—an uncommon and charming survival!

Such a unique and fabulous addition to collections of antique silver, vestas, tobacciana or unusual personal accessories. This tubular form differs from the more typical flat, rectangular vesta cases and offers strong decorative presence as well as collector appeal. Makes a great pill box!

Interior is stamped 925 with a secondary mark possibly reading 80MA (a maker’s or registration mark?). The case retains its original chained cap and presents beautifully as both a functional antique smoking accessory and a small, silver objet de vertu.

*Vesta cases are small, portable containers designed to protect early, highly-combustible, friction matches—sometimes called "lucifers"—from moisture and accidental ignition. Popular between the 1860s and 1940s, these cases are heavily collected for their historical, artistic, and functional value, and capped for easy access. Affluent consumers would commission or purchase cases which the jeweler would often inscribe with their initials.

Please also see my listing "Antique English Sterling Silver Vesta Match Safe by Joseph Gloster Ltd, Birmingham 1927". See less