Antique Vesta Case with Engraving – circa 1900

This antique match case, also known as a Vesta case, dates from around 1890 to 1910 and was originally used to safely store matches in a pocket. Such cases were popular everyday accessories, especially in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and were often carried by gentlemen along with a pocket watch.

The case impresses with its elegant, slightly rounded shape and the finely engraved geometric and floral ornaments in the Art Nouveau style. The ribbed underside was used to strike matches. Inside, there is space for small matches or other everyday small items.

The embossed maker's mark "FD" refers to the English silversmith F. D. Long from Birmingham, who was known in the late 19th and early 20th centuries for his richly decorated Vesta cases and silver cases. This example is a high-quality silver-plated version with a beautiful patina and visible signs of wear, which emphasize the authentic character of the object.

Today, the object is excellently suited as a collector's item, a decorative pocket accessory, or a small case with a special historical character.

• Antique Vesta case / match case
• Circa 1890–1910
• Manufacturer: F. D. Long, Birmingham (England)
• Silver-plated version
• With engraved Art Nouveau decor
• Ribbed striking surface on the underside
• Suitable for "strike anywhere" matches
• With snap closure
• Dimensions: 5.5 × 3.5 × 1.5 cm
• Weight: 33 g

Vintage condition with age-related signs of wear that emphasize its authentic character.