Size: Roughly 5 in long
Era: Believed late 19th to early 20th century
Condition: Antique condition with substantial patina and loss to the original gilt finish
Ornate antique Victorian wall-mounted double match holder / match safe, featuring an elaborate Neoclassical architectural design with twin urn-shaped match cups.
Purchased in an antique store in the Netherlands.
While believed to be an antique wall-mounted match holder or match safe, its exact original purpose is unconfirmed and it may have served as a decorative mount or holder for another fireplace/hearth accessory.
This substantial antique fireplace accessory was designed to mount on the wall near a fireplace, hearth or stove, keeping wooden matches conveniently within reach. The highly detailed cast construction features two projecting classical urn-form match holders with decorative finials, architectural scrollwork and an elaborate urn/pediment-style backplate.
The piece is exceptionally substantial for its relatively compact size, weighing approximately 12 oz / 335 g. Size is roughly 5” in length.
It appears to be cast brass, bronze or a similar copper-alloy metal with remnants of an old gilt/gold-toned surface finish.
The original finish has worn considerably with age, creating a wonderful dark aged patina with areas of exposed metal, discoloration and surface wear throughout. It has not been polished, preserving its antique character.
Weight: Approx. 12 oz / 335 g
Material: Cast brass/bronze-tone metal; exact alloy untested
Style: Victorian / Neoclassical Revival
Period: Believed late 19th to early 20th century
Type: Wall-mounted double match holder / match safe / fireplace accessory
Maker: Unidentified / no maker’s mark located
Please examine photographs closely for condition, construction and surface wear. Antique condition with substantial patina and loss to the original gold-toned/gilt finish consistent with age.
A beautiful and unusual piece of antique fireplace hardware for a Victorian interior, historic home, match safe collection, architectural salvage collection or period hearth display.
