Antique Silver Art Nouveau Vesta Match Holder

Friction matches were invented in the 1830s. On occasion, these sulfur-tipped matches would combust, due to the heat of friction, without any warning. Vesta cases, or matchboxes, were meant to prevent this explosion from happening by keeping the matches dry and safe. The idea of a vesta case stemmed from the snuffbox, and typically had a rectangular shape, with a flip-top lid, and a serrated edge at the base used to strike the match. Some pieces were built more extravagantly and held cigar cutters or a place for sovereigns. Victorians made the vessels for these short matches into a fashion statement. These small containers were designed for status and became a normal part of the dress code. Men were the ones who typically carried them around, at the end of a Double Albert chain, or in the pocket of a waistcoat. Cases with semi-clad women weren’t uncommon, but they were hidden inside pockets until offered to another gentleman who needed a light. The designs on vestas varied wildly as