1901 Sterling Silver Vesta Match Safe by Arthur Cook of Birmingham

An English antique engraved sterling silver vesta case, also called a match safe, from the Edwardian period, crafted by Arthur Cook of Birmingham and date marked for 1901. The rectangular form is delicately chased with scrolls on either side of the body extending upward to include both sides of the hinged lid. The upper rim of the body bears full hallmarks beginning with the A. C. maker’s mark for Arthur Cook, followed by the city mark for Birmingham, sterling silver, and a 1901 date mark. The inside of the lid is gilded and bears additional marks for sterling silver and the date. Very good condition with a tight hinge a silver ring (to affix a chain), and a strike plate on the base, measuring 1.63 in. Height (closed) x 1.25 in. W x 0.38 in. Depth. There is no monogram, but there is an undecorated space on one side suitable for personalizing with engraved initials, if desired.

Small and elegant match safes—also known as vesta cases, vesta boxes, or pocket match safes—were used to keep short matches safe and dry. Many cases were designed with a ribbed strike plate to assist with lighting a match. The decorative boxes reached their peak popularity at the end of the 19th century through 1920.