This exceptional antique Victorian vesta box, in sterling silver, has been realistically modelled in the form of a woven fishing basket.
The rounded surface of the antique vesta case is ornamented with impressive engraved chevron designs replicating the details of basket weave, in addition to a plain band and buckle design reproducing a strap.
This 19th century silver & enamel vesta case is fitted with a plateaued hinged cover, ornamented with an impressive hot enamel panel depicting a fish* on a terrain surface.
The cover opens to reveal the original gilded interior; this has worn with age in a sympathetic fashion to an aesthetically pleasing mellow colour.
The underside of the case bears a serrated panel/match striker, in addition to the full hallmarks and Austro-Hungarian import mark (A, Wien/Vienna).
This exceptional box is the finest example of its type you could hope to acquire; such boxes crafted in this high quality are rare to the market.
NOTE: * This fish pertains anatomical characteristic similarities to a pike.
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Maker: G Watts & Co (George Watts)