Collectibles: Comics, Sports, Tobacciana
Lot 45:
Description
This lot comprises two antique vesta cases, or match safes, dating from the late 19th to early 20th century. The first case is of rectangular form with rounded corners and features an intricate, all-over relief-cast pattern. The design is in the style of Russian trompe l’oeil basketweave, consisting of a diamond lattice or fishnet motif with floral bosses at the intersections, divided by horizontal bands of raised rope-twist molding. The second case features an embossed equestrian-themed design on the front face, depicting a horse’s head framed by a horseshoe, with a stirrup and riding crop detail below. The reverse of the equestrian case is hand-engraved with stylized foliate scrolls. This case is fitted with a small suspension loop on one side for attachment to a watch chain. Both items are constructed from white metal, potentially silver-plate, nickel silver, or early aluminum, as no maker’s marks or hallmarks are visible on the exterior surfaces.
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