Rare 19th-century Wedgwood Jasperware Match Boxes Taper Top (Pair)

Rare 19th-Century Wedgwood Jasperware Vesta Candle Holders (Pair)

A rare and highly desirable pair of 19th-century Wedgwood jasperware vesta candle holders, also known as match safes or night lights. Each example is finely decorated with neoclassical figural panels in white sprig relief on a deep, dark blue ground, characteristic of Wedgwood’s finest jasperware.

A vesta refers to an early form of safety match, typically featuring a wax-coated stem with a phosphorus tip. Wax vestas were historically stored inside the vessel; the underside is scored to allow the match to be struck. Once lit, the vesta could be placed in the aperture at the top, functioning as a small candle or night light.

Details:

Manufacturer: Wedgwood

Period: 19th Century

Material: Jasperware

Decoration: White neoclassical figures in sprig relief on dark blue ground

Marks: Impressed “WEDGWOOD” to base

Height: 9.2cm

Diameter: 6cm

Condition:

Very good antique condition, with well-preserved relief detail and strong color. No significant damage noted.

An exceptionally rare pair, combining decorative beauty with historical functionality—ideal for serious collectors of Wedgwood, jasperware, or early lighting and fire-making objects.

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Our items are professionally and securely packaged. We send either fully tracked or Special Delivery. Please add £15 for small items (objets d'art that fit into a 25 cm x 25 cm box) or £25 for anything larger (large vases, boxes, candlesticks, etc.). Paintings are £30 each to ship. If in doubt, please contact us. Thank you.

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All Items: Porcelain, China, General Antiques, and Collectables:

Please note that all our items are second-hand, vintage, or antique unless stated otherwise. Therefore, all items will have small marks, irregularities, and wear commensurate with age and use. We will always describe obvious damage but not every tiny little imperfection; please see photos for condition; we take many clear, concise shots to allow you a complete overview; and please also note there may be color variation from the screen representation to the actual item.

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Watches/Clocks/Barometers/Mechanical Items: These are not serviced, and no guarantee of performance is offered, although we will point out any obvious issues we are aware of.

We work hard to maintain this level of quality and service.

Please note that any props used to display or support an item are not included in the sale unless clearly stated.

Thank you.