CLICK HERE TO BUY THIS BRASS CHINESE DRAGON VESTA MATCH STRIKER ON MILLYS MARVELS
Brass Chinese Dragon Vesta Match Striker
This is a beautifully detailed brass vesta. The vesta has a raised Oriental dragon snaking its way round the vesta case. The underside of the vesta is ridged so that it can be used to strike a match. Condition: Excellent.
Dimensions: 5.6cm x 3.5cm
Vesta cases were introduced in the early 19th century following the manufacture of friction ‘lucifer’ matches in 1826. These matches could self ignite from the heat of friction, often explosively, and were dangerous if simply carried in the pocket. Vesta cases were composed of brass, gold, silver or silver plated cases just large enough to hold (and keep safe) a good number of matches. Vesta cases also prevented matches from becoming damp and useless.
The history of the match holder starts in the 19th century. When matches were invented in 1830, people immediately tried to think of how to transport these “dangerous” things. The first match holders were produced as early as 1835 and were made of wood; later iron and other materials were used. The simple match holders were made for the common people. Only the wealthy could afford expensive match holders.
CLICK HERE TO BUY THIS BRASS CHINESE DRAGON VESTA MATCH STRIKER ON MILLYS MARVELS
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