This is an early Victorian 'Go to Bed' vesta or matchsafe in the form of an elephant, made from Cast iron with a Bronze patina, and almost certainly of European origin & dating to around 1850 - 60.

The holder (and particularly the base & striking rim) is very similar in style to the pre 1850 Cast iron figural holders produced by the German manufacturer EG Zimmermann.

The holder has been extremely finely cast as a 'Gentleman' elephant wearing a shirt, bow-tie, & tail coat, complete with a hanging pocket watch & fobs. The elephant walks with a cane or walking stick.

The elephants head hinges backwards to reveal a compartment for matches, & there is a small hole in the end of his trunk, which acts as a socket for a lit match, for use as a 'Go to Bed'.

The base is slightly oval in shape, with a cast dimpled surface (to simulate gravel etc.), & has cross hatching all around the circumference of the rim, which acts as the striking surface. The holder is attached to the base with 2 finished rivets.

Condition is Excellent for its 160 odd years, the cast detail is extremely sharp, the patination is absolutely superb, & the hinge works fine. The only thing to note is that there has been a very old, very small & minor repair to the interior of the elephants head, at the point just above where it hinges. This can only be seen from inside & does not affect the appearance or operation in any way at all - please see magnified photos.

The holder stands approx 3 1/2" (8.9 cm) in height.

Overall, an extremely rare & early 'Go to Bed' Match Holder, in excellent condition & with a superb finish & detail in the casting.