This auction is for an original and rare to find c. 1890 Japanese mixed metals figural 'Oni' vesta matchsafe, which is from a series of Oni - meaning Japanese Devil vesta matchsafes.
It has a good weight, wonderful decoration showing the 'Oni' craddling a small baby chick in his arms.
The head flips open from a back hinge, and closes really well with a very good snap shut. The striker is on the bottom.
An extremely tactile finely decorated vesta case, I find it very difficult to buy these original examples, especially of this quality.
Detailed to both the back and front, these were generally made from brass and bronzed over the top and also showing gold and red detailing with a strong nickel silver hinge and pin.
Measures approx. 6 cms tall.
Shows just signs of wear from being held over the years and the odd white polish residue.
An extremely collectable vesta matchsafe that would certainly display well and compliment any collection, especially with other Japanese examples.
In 'used' and left in un-cleaned condition, please take a look at the pictures above and ask any more questions you may have, also take a look at my other vesta matchsafe listings, thank you. All of the above is my opinion. I am happy to combine postage where possible. If you buy more than one auction and would like a combined invoice, please request this before paying and I will invoice you for a combined invoice lot which will always save you money.UK postage is £7.50, special next day delivery. Packed very well to ensure safe delivery.
There is possibly cheaper post on ebay, but not next day signed for, and unfortunately items can go missing if there is not a signature required, thank you for your understanding. For overseas transactions ‘International Track & Signed For’ or 'International Tracked' delivery will be used, depending on the destination country.
Paypal preferred for payment, but if you wish to pay by cheque please email before bidding. I would need to wait for cheque to clear before posting out. If you have a query regarding forms of payment, please contact me. Any questions you may have, please do not hesitate to contact me, and I will do my best to answer as best I can, and if you require additional photographs please ask.