Antique Gutta Percha or Bakelite Match Safe or Vesta Seashell Shape
Description: This is a rather unusual and very interesting dark brown vesta, match safe, or matchsafe. The piece is made of Gutta Percha or possibly Bakelite and is in the shape of a seashell. The match safe has a hinged lid on the flat side which is textured to act as a striker. When the lid is opened, using the extension, it reveals the compartment where the matches would be. The piece is held together with what looks like metal pins which keeps the top and bottom attached to the curved sides and one of the pins acts as the hinge. A very nice match safe that is over 100 years old and in very good used condition. It would make a great addition to your match safe collection. Pleases carefully review the photos presented as they are part and parcel of our description.
Date: Unknown, but most likely late 1800s or early 1900s (late 19th century or early 20th century).
Origin: Purchased at an estate auction in Southeastern Pennsylvania.
Size: Measures ~1 3/4" by ~1 1/2" by ~1/2" and weighs about half an ounce.
Maker: Unknown.
Marks: Unmarked.
Distinguishing Characteristics - Most Interesting About The Piece: An interesting and rather unusual match safe in the fact that it is made of a polymer. This was probably a curiosity rather than a usable match safe since if the matches stored self-ignited it would melt the vesta and created a hazard. Be that as it may, this match safe would make a great addition to your small box collection, match safes or tobacco/smoking related collection.
Condition: The vesta or match safe is in overall good condition with no problems. The hinged lid is intact and works the way it should. The pins holding it together are intact and all there. The interior is clean and complete. The exterior of the vesta shows some minor scratches, scuff marks, and general soiling. Be that as it may, this is a nice and very interesting piece worthy of a spot in your collection. Please see photos for additional condition information.
