Floral Painted Papier Mache Match Safe, C. 1890

Antiques : Accessories : Papier Mache Painted Match Safe

 

We have looked high and low on the Internet and have been unable to locate another piece like this marvelous, decorative painted papier mache match safe. The black paper mache resembles Victorian-era lacquerware. A floral theme gaily stretches across the cover with a butterfly adding a touch of whimsy. The novel nature of this match safe will add a decorative touch to any room. The piece is a total of 3 ½ inches long and is 3 1/4 inches at its widest point, standing 1 3/4 inches high. The whole piece is lacquered black, top and bottom, with a floral pattern that includes a butterfly painted over the black lacquer. Overall, the condition of this item is quite good. The paint shows signs of craquelure which adds to its charm along with the normal signs of wear and rubbing. There is a 1/4 inch section of separation inside the box next to one of the hinges, but this damage is not visible from the outside. The match striking surface on the lower front has mostly worn off with time, but does not impact on the overall appearance of the piece. This box would look wonderful on your desk or sitting on a shelf somewhere. Papier mache is usually found in highly damaged condition. That is not so in this case. The piece has survived the test of time quite nicely.

You can buy with confidence from Sweetpea Cottage. We stand behind everything that we sell. If you wish to return your purchase for any reason, simply notify us by email of your intentions within 3 days of receiving the item. We then ask that you return it to us in its original condition in a timely fashion. At that time we will refund the full purchase price minus any shipping charges. Shipping for this wonderful match safe is $8.00 which includes insurance for the full value of the item.

Item ID: AntPMMS-362