Match strikers, 1910-1938

A superb and unprecedented collection of match strikers, ranging from the diminutive to the outright colossal, each with a body of clear ribbed crystal glass with a Sterling silver mount and date between 1910 and 1938, designed for use with Swan Vesta (or ‘strike anywhere’) matches – still readily available. These hugely decorative pieces provide a stylish alternative to lighters for cigars, cigarettes or simply candles. (Clockwise, left to right):

Stuart Clifford & Co, London: an early and large clear crystal and Sterling silver mounted Vesta striker and holder of ball form, the collar with an engine turned pattern, the glass body unusually with a hollow base incorporating the recess for matches, the silver collar bearing maker’s marks and hallmarks for Stuart Clifford Silversmiths of London (Est. 1904) and bearing date marks for 1912.

Height: 5 inches (13 cm), diameter: 5½ inches (14 cm)

REFERENCE: 6645
Price Code: SOLD

James Dixon & Sons: an extraordinarily large crystal vesta match striker, the collar bearing marks for James Dixon & Sons and Birmingham hallmarks.

Height: 7 inches (18 cm), diameter: 7 inches (18 cm)

REFERENCE: 6644
Price Code: £££

Asprey & Co, London: an extremely large clear crystal and Sterling silver mounted Vesta match striker and holder of ball form, the collar bearing maker’s marks and hallmarks for Asprey & Co. of London and bearing date mark for 1938.

Height: 5 inches (13 cm), diameter: 6 inches (15 cm)

REFERENCE: 6623
Price Code: SOLD

A very stylish crystal and Sterling silver mounted vesta match striker and holder of ball form, the collar bearing maker’s marks and early date marks (indistinct).

Height: 3 inches (8 cm),diameter: 3½ inches (9 cm)

REFERENCE: 6647
Price Code: ££

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