Vesta holder
Category
Metalwork
Date
Unknown
Materials
Metal
Measurements
62 mm (Height); 44 mm (Diameter); 40 mm (Height); 44 mm (Diameter)
Order this imageCollection
Dunham Massey, Cheshire
NT 937351
Summary
Victorian figural 'Go to Bed' vesta or matchsafe, in the form of a post box / pillar-box, & manufactured in tin, by Bryant & May circa 1890. This is a two part match safe, with the 'pillar-box' sliding over the base. The lid has a red 'enamel' finish & reads POST OFFICE (with the coat of arms in between). Underneath this is a notice plate with the inland postal rates for letters, then the Royal cipher 'VR' for Queen Victoria. At the base is B&Ms PAT. The box has a brass 'Go to Bed' finial, in which, a lit match would be placed to enable you to use it as a torch. The bottom part of the holder has a gilt finish, with a perforated striker to the base. The side of the base reads 'BRYANT & MAY'S ROYAL WAX VESTAS, LONDON', underneath this is 'POSTAL REGULATIONS' with a table of Postal Rates for Inland Letters, & sections for Book Post, Newspapers, & Registration.
Provenance
Stamford collection; devised to the National Trust by Roger Grey, 10th Earl of Stamford (1896-1976).