COLLECTED WORKS
Vesta Cases
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vesta case is a small box designed to hold matches. Unlike today’s safety matches, the ‘friction’ matches or ‘vestas’ introduced in the 1830s were prone to ignite at the slightest touch, hence the need for a sealed container to carry them in. Vesta cases are easily identified by the fact that somewhere – often on the bottom edge – there will be a ribbed surface designed for use as a striker. “Vesta cases may have a pedestrian function, but an amazing array of techniques and materials were used to make them,” says Jeffrey Lassaline, specialist in charge of silver and objects of vertu at Tennants Auctioneers in Leyburn.
96 | WINTER 2022 | Dales Life
“At the peak of their popularity in the late 19th century, people with moderate means would most likely own a tin or brass vesta case, whereas wealthier users would carry a silver or gold one, or one that was elaborately enamelled. “This huge diversity makes them eminently collectable. You can start with entry-level plain silver vesta cases costing as little as £20 or £30, with the option of buying better examples as your collection expands. “Another reason collecting vesta cases is popular is the fact that they’re small, require very little looking after, and are easy to display in a vitrine cabinet. The market is holding firm, with a solid core group of collectors looking to fill gaps in their collections.”
