Description

One of the more unique and rare matchsafes of the period. Made in the barrel motif which found great popularity in the 1840-1860s period. This is an early piece in my opinion but in excellent+ condition. A little barrel shape covered in thin leather veneer such as seen on period Testament covers, diaries, etc., with elegant crosshatch design. It has raised barrel bands and incised embossed gold lines on either side of the bands. The detail is wonderful – including a little bung on the side. ( I have seen high grade needle holders dating to the 1850s, in the same basic design) Both ends of the barrel are rough sand glued to cardstock forming the striker. This is a quite early type of striker, found on match boxes and tubes which we have inventoried also dating to the 1850s. The bottom of the base pushes up and likewise raises the top so you can pull the cylindrical cap off revealing the inner cylinder which forms the safe. Even the cap and inner cylinder are lined with the fine crosshatch embossed leather veneer. This a fantastic and quite rare matchsafe. One of the best we have ever had! We are very excited to offer it for your enjoyment!