FRENCH 1920 Art-Deco Industrialism Fusee Striker-Lighter Mechanical Box In Plated Bronze
A French mechanical fusee vesta case designed by Vaudine.
This is a fascinating antique mechanical vesta striker-lighter box, manufactured in France by Vaudine circa 1920, during the early Art Deco period. Combining the functions of a vesta box and a wick lighter, this ingenious tobacco accessory exemplifies the mechanical creativity and industrial design aesthetics that emerged in Europe during the early twentieth century. The piece has been crafted in a distinctive rectangular form from bronze with a polished plated finish, complemented by mechanical components in steel and iron. Its geometric lines, functional construction, and industrial-inspired detailing reflect the influence of the machine age on French decorative arts and personal accessories of the period.
The ingenious mechanism incorporates a wheel for retract the wick, a hinged compartment for storing matches, and a small protective lid covering the wick. The lid also features a rough striking surface, or rasp, for igniting the matches. This clever combination of features makes the object a practical and remarkably compact multifunctional accessory. All mechanical components are reported to be in proper working order, adding to its appeal as both a functional antique and a collectible design object. Approximately a century old, this unusual French creation offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of personal ignition devices and the innovative spirit of early Art Deco industrial design.
Presented in very good antique condition, this distinctive piece will appeal to collectors of antique lighters, vesta boxes, tobacciana, and European industrial design. Unusual, mechanically intriguing, and rich in period character, it is a highly collectible conversation piece that embodies the ingenuity and geometric aesthetics of 1920s France.
The ingenious mechanism reflects the fascinating evolution of early personal ignition devices, combining traditional match storage with specialized lighting technology. Some antique vesta boxes were designed to accommodate fusee matches, a heavy-duty, slow-burning variety developed to resist wind and drafts, particularly useful for lighting cigars and pipes outdoors. Other mechanical examples incorporated a reusable wick-bearing element, often referred to as a permanent match, alongside the match compartment. These innovative systems typically employed a metal wand fitted with a wick, which could be ignited through a friction-based mechanism. Such multifunctional designs exemplify the remarkable mechanical ingenuity and practical sophistication of Victorian, Edwardian, and early Art Deco tobacco accessories.
Country: Paris, France.
Period: Art-Deco.
Materials: Polished plated brass, steel and iron.
Weight: 49.35 Grams, (31.65 Dwt).
Measurements: 87 mm by 44 mm by 11 mm (3.43 x 1.73 x 0.43 Inches).
Hallmarks: Stamped with French titles, the maker's mark and signed as follows; "V.D. BREVETE S.D.D.G. DEPOSE"
Vesta boxes
Vesta cases are small portable boxes made to contain matches and keep them dry. They take their name from the Roman goddess of fire and the hearth, although in the United States they are more prosaically know as match safes. The first successful friction match appeared in 1826, and in 1832 William Newton patented the "wax vesta" in England. It consisted of a wax stem with embedded cotton threads and a tip of phosphorus. Antique Vesta Cases were made popular in Victorian times where they were worn on a chatelaine belt or men's fob to contain wax matches. They're usually solid sterling silver, and on the rare occasion, solid gold. Quite often engraved with the owner's initials.
Collateral: This French fusee vesta box is accompanied by a presentation jewelry pouch.
Condition: The overall condition of this French fusee vesta box is excellent. Besides the little normal wear, there is no damage to the metal. All parts are secured in the settings. This piece has been carefully inspected to guarantee the condition & authenticity.
INVENTORY REF: D101326MAEK/.5320
