English George v Sterling Silver Vesta Match Safe by Henry Williamson

Description

An antique English George V engraved vesta case / match safe in sterling silver by Henry Williamson Ltd. of Birmingham, … more An antique English George V engraved vesta case / match safe in sterling silver by Henry Williamson Ltd. of Birmingham, date marked for 1914. The rounded rectangular form is delicately chased with engraved scroll decoration on one side with bright cut engraving of a leaf pattern on the reverse. The decoration extends upward to include both sides of the hinged lid. The upper rim of the body bears full hallmarks beginning with the H W L maker's mark for Henry Williamson Ltd., followed by the Birmingham city mark, sterling silver, and a 1914 date mark. The inside of the lid bears additional marks for sterling silver and the date mark. Very good condition with a tight hinge, a silver ring on one side (to affix a chain), and a strike plate on the base, measuring 1 75 in. H (closed) x 1 5/8 in. W (at widest) x 0.5 in. D. There is no monogram, but there is an undecorated space on one side suitable for personalization with engraved initials, if desired.

Small and elegant match safes—also known as vesta cases, vesta boxes, or pocket match safes—were used to keep short matches safe and dry. Many cases were designed with a ribbed strike plate to assist with lighting a match. The decorative boxes reached their peak popularity at the end of the 19th century through 1920. less