Brass Toby Dog Match Safe

Item: 1448298406

This is a superb collectible brass vesta case.  The vesta is in the shape of Punch and Judy's dog Toby. The vesta is in overall good shape for its age. The brass has a lovely polished patina. I will ship worldwide please get in touch for a quote.

Dimensions: 5.5cm x 2.5cm

Vesta was the Roman goddess of light and fire. As smoking became increasingly fashionable towards the end of the century, small rectangular boxes with rounded corners were made specifically to hold them. 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. Although vesta cases were restricted in size because of their function, their decoration varied enormously, from the very plain to the heavily embossed and chased decorated. The majority of vesta cases have a hinged cover and a ring loop attachment to allow suspension. I hope you enjoy browsing through our large array of beautiful Vesta cases on offer.