This is a hand chased Sterling Silver Vesta or match holder, fully hallmarked for Chester 1919.

The front of the case has an inctricatly hand chased design, depicting Thistle plants around a centrally inlaid, composite ? Thistle head.

.The case is fully hallmarked twice : The lip carries the makers mark WHL (poss WH Lyde), the lion passant (925 sterling), the Chester town mark (wheatsheaf's), & the date letter (cursive T for 1919 - 20). The front of the case also carries the lion passant & date letter.

The case has a side mounted ring to enable attachment to an Albert chain.

The case measures approx 5cm x 4cm, and weighs 24.3 grammes.

CONDITION : The condition I would describe as poor to fair, the central inlay is cracked (probably due to shrinkage of the composite over 88 years), there is a crease to the front of the case, & there are numerous small dings to the rear. The hinge is perfect & the chasing & hallmarks are crisp.