A Vesta case, or simply a Vesta, is a small box, usually made from precious or non- precious metal, made to house wax, or “strike anywhere”, matches. They are aptly named after Vesta, the Roman goddess of Fire and the Hearth.
Vesta cases were popular in the 19th century Victorian and Edwardian eras, when they were part of the essential ‘dress code’ of the time, and were worn by both men and women. They were made in various materials, including solid gold, and various shapes, from plain and functional to ornate and novel.
Silver Vesta cases can range from simple and affordable to rare and expensive, depending on the age, condition, provenance, and rarity of the piece. Some of the most famous and sought-after makers of silver vesta cases are Mappin & Webb, Sampson Morgan, Asprey & Co. Famous Jewellers Houses such as Tiffany & Co., Murat, Faberge and Christolfe added their designs, and a simple match case became fine jewellery!
Often decorated with fine engraving and scroll work, chasing, repoussé, enamelling, niello and even gemstones. Fine silver examples often offer beautiful gilded interiors. Finding one that excites is part of the hunt! Vesta front faces bear a “shield” or cartouche- a blank area often in a shield shape where a personal initial or name was added. Owning a Vesta with Provenance relating to a famous or important historical figure, has added value when initials are present.
Vestas were often given a theme- with Club logos, hunting scenes, early erotica or gambling symbols such as a poker suite, being highly sought after. Figurative Vestas include animal shapes like owls and bats, musical instruments and even books.
The smaller Vestas with rounded edges were the norm for women, who wore them on chatelaine chains, or boutonniere chains as did the men with their pocket fob chains. Many still have an original hefty jump ring attached.
They sadly became redundant after the 1920’s, when fuel lighters entered the marketplace.
A Guide on Collecting
- Silver Vesta Cases are normally hallmarked with a Maker’s Mark, the date letter, the assay office, and the Lion Passant (London) or similar, for Sterling silver. These marks can assist you in dating and identifying your purchase correctly, including its authenticity and quality.
- They are generally an affordable historic Silver item to collect, and can be found at antique fairs, auctions or online.
- When deciding on your purchase, please evaluate as follows:
- The lid should close securely and tight, with no obvious gaps or cracks.
- The striker plate, at the underside or on a side, should be crisp, with very little to no signs of wear or damage.
- The outer surface of the case should be smooth, free of dents, deep scratches or tarnish. (Small surface scratches can be normal due to age related wear).
- Look for a clear and complete set of Hallmarks, with no alterations (at times these may be partly rubbed off due to age and general wear).
- A bonus is always a matching chain or jump ring!
- The interior should be clear, with no traces of corrosion or rust.
Today they are worn as pendants and lockets on a longer length chain- the engraved casing making for a beautiful feature and a true conversation starter.
They remain highly collectable, as they reflect the craftsmanship and personality of their owners.
At 1077Atelier, our passion is for the wide variety in elegant Sterling Silver Vestas- they make for relatively affordable, and superbly attractive, first collectable silverware or Objets de vertu…and yes, we consider them Jewellery!
Please peruse our collection currently available in our online shop.
With love
1077Atelier
