Antique Sterling Silver Match Safe or Vesta Repousse Scroll and Flower Design
Description: Antique small pocket match safe, matchsafe or vesta made of a sterling silver. This match safe has a raised or repousse design depicting bright smooth oval in the center on both sides with scroll or plant design surrounding it flanked with two flowers near the bottom. The match safe has two dings in the clear central area on one side and rubbing marks on the opposite side. The repousse design is also evident on the inside. The match safe has a hinged lid which also has raised scroll on both sides. The match safe has a striker for the matches on the bottom. The lid hinge works well and closes tight. The match safe is intact but has several dings and scratches. However, it still looks good and worthy of a spot in your collection. Pleases carefully review the photos presented as they are part and parcel of our description.
Date: Uncertain, but sometime between late 1800s and early 1900s.
Origin: Purchased at an estate auction in Southeastern Pennsylvania.
Size: Measures ~2 3/8" by ~1 1/4" and it is ~1/4" in thickness. The vesta weighs slightly less than half an ounce.
Maker: Unknown.
Marks: Marked STERLING in raised lettering on the lip where the lid rests.
Distinguishing Characteristics - Most Interesting About The Piece: A nice antique match safe. It would make a good addition to your small box collection, matchsafe, or tobacco/smoking related collection.
Condition: The match safe is sterling silver and is in relatively good clean condition. The hinged lid works great and closes tightly as it should. The match safe has no breaks or repairs. The vesta has many dings, which can be seen in the photos, as well as scratches throughout. The match safe has two dings in the clear central area on one side and rubbing marks on the opposite side. It also has some soiling and general wear to the exterior commensurate with its age and utilitarian function. Because of the issues discussed above, we are selling the match safe AS IS at a fraction of its true value. Please see photos for additional condition information.
