Japanese Meiji Mokume-Gane Vesta Case

This exquisite Japanese Meiji iron, gold & silver vesta case was made circa 1905 by Komai Otojiro. (駒井音次郎), the third son of Komai Seibei (駒井清兵衛), a sword fittings maker who establis...

Vessel Color: Bright Burnt Orange Size: Diameter 1-3/8" X 2-1/8"" Tall This special Vessel features a truly artisinal gemstone created by our longtime partners at the Wackler Gem Company. It is a Doublet consisting of a hemispherical Rutilated Quartz cabochon bonded to a lower flat layer of Condor Agate from the Patagonia region of Argentina. Encasing this special gem is another truly unique feature of this Vessel: a lathe-turned and Rose Engine engraved setting made of Mokume Gane patterned metal constructed from layers of Sterling Silver, Copper and 5% Shibuichi, a traditional Japanese copper/silver alloy for sword furniture and decorative metalwork. Each metal in the fused laminate reacts differently to the applied patina to reveal the woodgrain patterns that run throughout the thickness of the metal. These patterns are not surface treatments like electroplated colors so they are durable and can be restored to their original colors if ever needed. Supporting the spectacular gemstone is a Bright Burnt Orange Vessel...

A 19th century gold vesta case, with floral decoration, and set with sapphire and diamonds, compartment and striker to base, plain gold hoop, 4cm high.

This beautiful and rare Victorian silver vesta case is crafted in rectangular form with a flat-top spring-hinged lid and fine enamel detailing, offering a glimpse into the elegant so...

An exceptional example of Victorian whimsy and craftsmanship, this antique silver vesta case is both a functional object and a collector’s delight. Designed in the form of a miniatur...

This exceptional and rare antique French silver and niello vesta case dating to circa 1880 is made by A. Dubois. The front of the vesta case is decorated with a pair of birds sittin...

A rare and delightfully whimsical Victorian-era sterling silver vesta case, dated 1887, showcasing a unique blend of satire and fine craftsmanship. This collectible piece, both funct...

A rare and delightful late 19th-century gilt-brass vesta case with hand-painted enamel scenes, in the tradition of playful Continental "novelty" smoking accessories. The exterior lid depicts a gentleman seated on a riverbank fishing, while a lady stands nearby. Below, a hand-painted French inscription reads: “Entagaînant le goujon jéveux”, which loosely translates as “Catching the gudgeon I desire.” In French slang of the period, “gudgeon” (goujon) was both a small fish and a playful metaphor for a naïve “catch,” giving the scene a humorous double meaning. Opening the case reveals a hidden risqué scene: the same couple, but with the lady having taken a tumble, her skirts up and legs in the air, much to the surprise of her companion. The interior enamel is inscribed in French “Les surprises de Suzon” (“Suzon’s surprises”), a humorous and cheeky detail typical of these whimsical 19th-century objets de vertu. The case is of gilt brass with a ribbed striking surface to the base and retains its original hinged construction. The enamel is beautifully executed in vivid colors and remains in very good condition for its age, with only minor wear consistent with use. Dimensions: Approx. Length 4.6 cm, Width 3,7 cm, Height 1.1 cm. Weight: 39 grams Origin: France, circa 1880–1900 Materials: Gilt brass, enamel Condition: Very good antique condition with light surface wear; enamels intact and vibrant. This piece would make a superb addition to any collection of antique smoking accessories...

A delightful antique French vesta case (match safe), finely crafted in gilt brass and decorated with a colorful hand-painted enamel plaque. The enamel scene depicts a playful seaside...

A fine and highly decorative English sterling silver vesta case (match safe), hallmarked in London around the turn of the 20th century. This rectangular case combines utility with ar...