Sterling Silver and Enamel Vesta Box - Antique Victorian (1889)

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)

Date: 1889

This 19th century silver & enamel vesta case/box is an exceptional gauge of silver, exceptional quality and in exceptional condition.

The enamel is in perfect condition.

The British hallmarks struck to the underside of the case and part hallmarks to the interior of the cover are all very clear; the hallmarks are struck deeply due to the exceptional gauge of silver.

Reflections in photographs may detract from the true representation of this hot enamel vesta box.

Length 4.3cm/1.69"

Width 2.4cm/0.94"

Height 2.8cm/1.1"

0.6 troy ounces/18.8g