Vesta cases, also known as match safes, are small boxes that are used to carry matches and keep them safe from the elements. Vesta cases are often intricately crafted and considered small works of art, which why these match cases are very popular with collectors of antiques.
In the early 1800's, it was common to carry matches, since some type of portable fire was needed to light lanterns and stoves. The matches of that day were crude compared to today's standards, and were known to light when making contact with each other, and sometimes even spontaneously. In order to alleviate this potentially hazardous situation, it made good sense to utilize a vesta case or match safe.
One of the more interesting features of the vesta case or match safes is that they almost always include some type of rough or ribbed surface, usually on the bottom of the case that is used for striking the matches.
Match safes, or vesta cases can been found in countless different styles, materials and shapes. Metals used for making vesta cases range from tin, brass and silver to the more expensive precious metals like gold. Vesta cases can also be found in natural materials including bone, wood and ivory. While the most common size of the vesta case is small enough to fit comfortably in a pocket, larger cases were also made for home use. These larger cases or safes were commonly placed in areas where fires were often lit, for example, near wood burning stoves or fireplaces.
Vesta cases can still be found and purchased today for either personal use or to include in a collection. For a visual example of vesta cases, here is a small sampling of some of the vesta cases and match safes that can be found eBay, an online auction website:
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Links to useful information for anyone interested in Vesta Cases / Match Safes.
A great article with photos by Soodie about Match Safes
The International Match Safe Association and Museum
Mr. Vesta - Founding member of the International Match Safe Association and Museum
Vesta Case Buying Tips at Daniel Bexfield Antiques
Neil Shapiro's Match Safe Scholar Site an awesome resource for Match Safe collectors. Mr. Shapiro has detailed articles, a recommended reading list, and he even offers appraisals.
Bonham's Vesta Case auctions.
Tags: Antique, Gold, Japan, Ladies, Match Safe, Match Safes, Russian, Russian Silver, Silver, Sterling Silver, Vesta Case, Vesta Cases, Vintage
Sophisticated vesta cases for sale from around the world. Browse our practical to classy, we have vesta cases that will meet your needs. Clicking on the links below will open a detailed description of the vesta case in a new window on eBay.
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Art Deco vesta cases for sale from dealers and individuals from around the world. Clicking on the links below will open a detailed description of the Art Deco vesta cases for sale in a new window on eBay.
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Russian vesta cases for sale from dealers and individuals from around the world. Clicking on the links below will open a detailed description of the Russian vesta cases for sale in a new window on eBay.
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