THOMAS JONHSON 1865 London Exceptional Oval Vesta Matches Box In .925 Sterling
A sterling vesta matches oval box by Thomas Johnson.
This is a very rare vesta box for matches created in London, England at the silversmith atelier of Thomas Johnson. The piece has been masterfully crafted in 1865 in an elegant oval shape using solid sterling silver of .925/.999 standard, finished with refined engine-turned decoration that enhances its sophisticated Edwardian appearance. The design is both functional and highly decorative, featuring a concealed compartment with a hinged lid for storing matches, an integrated grooved striker element for igniting them, and a suspension ring allowing the piece to be worn on a chain or chatelaine. The compact proportions and seamless construction reflect the exceptional attention to detail and superior craftsmanship expected from distinguished London silversmiths of the period.
Elegant and practical, the vesta box displays a timeless aesthetic with clean lines and refined proportions, while the engine-turned surface adds depth, texture, and visual sophistication. The piece remains in remarkable original condition, with no dents, repairs, or restorations, preserving its authenticity and collector appeal. Rare, beautifully executed, and increasingly difficult to find in such preserved condition, this sterling silver vesta case is an outstanding example of fine English silver craftsmanship and a highly collectible object of functional antique design.
Country: London, United Kingdom.
Maker: Thomas Johnson Silversmiths.
Period: Victorian, 1865.
Materials: Engine turned .925 Sterling silver.
Weight: 51.2 Grams, (32.85 Dwt).
Measurements: H-57 mm by L-33 mm by D-20 mm (2.25 x 1.30 x 0.79 Inches).
Hallmarks Stamped with British marks as follows, the lion passant for England, the lion head for the city of London, the maker's mark T.J associated to Thomas Johnson and the letter code K for the date 1865.
Thomas Johnson
He was a well-known London-based silversmith working from 10 Dyers Building in Holborn, London. He registered his first mark in January in 1850 and by 1852 he was listed as a manufacturing silversmith of every description of dressing case fittings and silver flasks. He subsequently moved to 32, John Street, Bedford Row, WC. Where in 1860 he is listed as a manufacturing silversmith and manufacturer of every description of dressing case and travelling bag fittings, card cases, snuff and fuzee boxes, vinaigrettes and first-class spring-smelling bottles, and silver flasks. Johnson’s listing for 1861 was expanded to include railway lanterns and every description of silver small work. The style of the firm was changed in circa 1875 to Thomas Johnson & Sons and again in circa 1878 to Johnson, Sons & Edmonds. They were listed from 1879 to 1898 as gold and silversmiths and manufacturers of dressing cases, travelling bag fittings, card cases, snuff boxes, chatelaines, belts, buckles, glass and silver flasks, railway lanterns and every description of gold, silver, and other pencil cases and gold and silver mounters and glass cutters. The partners at this time were Thomas Johnson, Frederick Edmonds, Thomas George Johnson, and Edward James Winter Johnson. Thomas George Johnson retired on 1st January 1883, Thomas Johnson on 25th March 1885, and E.J. W. Johnson on 5th October 1891. Thereafter the business continued under the same style first by Frederick Edmonds until his death on 5th February 1898 and then by his widow, Mary Harris Edmonds. Mary Edmonds transferred to the business on the 27 August 1898 to Sampson Mordan & Co Ltd after which Johnson, Sons & Edmonds were listed for a short time as gold and silver pencil makers.
Condition: The overall condition of this vesta matches box by Thomas Johnson is excellent. Beside the little normal wear there is no damage to the silver and all parts are secured in the settings. This box was carefully inspected to guarantee the condition & authenticity.
INVENTORY REF: D052726SENH/1.517
