Antique Continental Likely German Brass Desktop Vesta Match Holder Striker & Tray C.1900

A substantial antique Continental brass tabletop vesta or match holder, probably German and dating from around the turn of the 20th century.

Of compact rectangular form, the piece is richly decorated throughout with raised floral and scrolling ornament against textured grounds. The hinged upper compartment opens to form a storage box for loose matches, while the deeply ribbed front edge serves as the integral striking surface.

Below the match compartment is a shallow decorated tray, most likely intended for spent matches or ash, making this a complete smoking-table accessory rather than simply a storage box.

The cast decoration is detailed and symmetrical, with stylised flowers, scrolling foliage and moulded borders typical of late 19th and early 20th century Continental decorative metalwork.

The underside retains its original screwed construction and bears a small sunburst-style trade or maker’s mark with accompanying letters. I would not attribute this mark to a specific manufacturer without firmer documentary evidence.

The metal appears to be cast brass / brass-rich copper alloy, with a naturally aged darkened patina and brighter golden tones remaining to raised and protected areas.

Details:

* Date: circa 1890–1910

* Listing year: 1900

* Likely origin: Continental Europe, probably Germany

* Material: Cast brass / copper alloy

* Dimensions: approx. 8 cm × 7 cm × 2 cm

* Weight: 278 g

* Function: Desktop/table vesta, match holder, striker and lower spent-match/ash tray

* Condition: Good antique condition with age-related wear, tarnishing, oxidation and rubbing to raised decoration. Hinge and lid remain functional.

Please study all photographs carefully as they form an important part of the condition description. Free shipping

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CKB LTD. was formed in 2010 and operates as an independent dealer, with a focus on carefully selected works offered through private sale and online platforms.

The company emphasizes informed attribution, clear descriptions, and responsible market practice. Objects are evaluated through visual examination, comparative research, and reference to established art-historical frameworks, with attention to condition, authenticity, and context.

CKB LTD. works with private collectors, dealers, and international buyers, and conducts transactions in accordance with standard international art market conventions. Each item is offered as a collectible work of art, with transparency regarding condition and attribution, and with respect for the nature of historical objects.

Condition, Attribution & Authenticity Notice

This work is offered as an antique object based on visual examination and comparative stylistic analysis. All statements regarding age, origin, attribution, and period represent informed scholarly opinion and are not guarantees of absolute fact.

Condition descriptions are based on external observation only. The interior, underside of the base, and any internal cavities or consecration materials have not been examined. No technical analysis (including XRF, thermoluminescence, or metallurgical testing) has been performed.

As is typical with antique bronzes, minor casting irregularities, surface wear, rubbing to high points, oxidation, and age-related imperfections are present and should be expected. No visible repairs or restorations are observed from the available views; however, the absence of hidden restorations cannot be guaranteed.

All items are sold as is, and prospective buyers are encouraged to examine the photographs carefully and request additional information prior to purchase. By bidding or purchasing, the buyer acknowledges acceptance of the item?s condition and the nature of antique works.

International Buyers ? Important Information

This item is an antique work of art over 100 years old and is sold as a collectible object. Buyers are responsible for any import duties, VAT, GST, customs fees, or local taxes imposed by their country.

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This work is offered in accordance with standard international art market practices.