Victorian Ebonized Match Safe / Matchbox Holder
Victorian Ebonized Match Safe / Matchbox Holder
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Additional Description
Small Victorian tabletop match safe or matchbox holder with ebonized wood body, hinged lid, and applied bone or ivory-colored decorative accents. The front and top are embellished with pale vertical strips, rounded cabochon-like studs, and dark metal nailhead details, giving the piece a strong Aesthetic Movement or Anglo-Indian decorative character.
The sloped front retains a striking surface, likely used for lighting matches. Interior opens to a small compartment suitable for wooden matches.
Era
Late 19th century, circa 1880–1900.
History
Before modern lighters became common, decorative match safes and matchbox holders were popular household accessories. They were often placed on mantels, writing desks, smoking tables, or beside candles and lamps. Ebonized finishes with bone or ivory-style mounts were especially fashionable during the Victorian Aesthetic Movement and were also influenced by Anglo-Indian and Moorish Revival design.
Provenance
Private collection.
Materials
Ebonized wood, bone or bone-like applied decoration, metal nailheads/hardware, striking surface.
Dimensions
TBD
Disclaimers
Wear consistent with age and use. Surface rubbing, losses, scratches, and age-related wear throughout. Some applied decoration shows discoloration and cracking. Underside has losses and exposed material. Striker surface is worn. Interior matches are modern/display only.
Additional Description
Small Victorian tabletop match safe or matchbox holder with ebonized wood body, hinged lid, and applied bone or ivory-colored decorative accents. The front and top are embellished with pale vertical strips, rounded cabochon-like studs, and dark metal nailhead details, giving the piece a strong Aesthetic Movement or Anglo-Indian decorative character.
The sloped front retains a striking surface, likely used for lighting matches. Interior opens to a small compartment suitable for wooden matches.
Era
Late 19th century, circa 1880–1900.
History
Before modern lighters became common, decorative match safes and matchbox holders were popular household accessories. They were often placed on mantels, writing desks, smoking tables, or beside candles and lamps. Ebonized finishes with bone or ivory-style mounts were especially fashionable during the Victorian Aesthetic Movement and were also influenced by Anglo-Indian and Moorish Revival design.
Provenance
Private collection.
Materials
Ebonized wood, bone or bone-like applied decoration, metal nailheads/hardware, striking surface.
Dimensions
TBD
Disclaimers
Wear consistent with age and use. Surface rubbing, losses, scratches, and age-related wear throughout. Some applied decoration shows discoloration and cracking. Underside has losses and exposed material. Striker surface is worn. Interior matches are modern/display only.