Antique Gilded Metal Match Safe or Vesta Raised Scroll Design Marked “Essex 105”
Description: Antique pocket gold colored match safe, matchsafe or vesta. This golden gilded metal match safe has a raised scroll design with a central raised escutcheon on both sides. The match safe has hinged top having the same pattern as the body of the vesta. The match safe has a striker for the matches on the bottom with raised lines on both sides. The match safe is marked "ESSEX 105" on the inside lip of the case only on one side. The lid hinge works well, it opens and snaps in place when closing as it should. Pleases carefully review the photos presented as they are part and parcel of our description.
Date: Uncertain, but sometime between mid 1800 and early 1900s.
Origin: Purchased at an estate auction in Southeastern Pennsylvania.
Size: Measures ~2 1/2" by ~1 1/2" by ~3/8" and weighs slightly less than one ounce.
Maker: Unknown.
Marks: The safe is marked "ESSEX 105" on the inside lip of the case only on one side.
Distinguishing Characteristics - Most Interesting About The Piece: An interesting and rather elegant antique match safe. It would make a great addition to your small box collection, match safes, or tobacco/smoking related collection.
Condition: The match safe is in good clean condition with no major problems. The match safe has no breaks or repairs. The hinged lid works great as it should. The vesta has a few minor and small and shallow dings to exterior. It also has some surface scratches, some soiling, and general wear to the exterior commensurate with the pieces age and utilitarian function. The main issue we see is some losses to the gilded finish which reveals the metal surface of the piece along the sides of the vesta. Be that as it may, this is still a very nice and elegant piece worthy of a spot in your collection. Please see photos for additional condition information.
