This is a Victorian novelty figural vesta or match safe, made of plated brass and celluloid?, and dating to around 1900.

The case is in the form of a turtle, with a nickel plated body & a shell (or carapace) made from a tortoiseshell effect celluloid or other form of early plastic.

The head of the turtle hinges downwards to reveal a compartment for matches, and the underside (or plastron) of the turtle is ribbed, so to act as a striker.

This vesta can be found on page 69 in the Schiffer / Alsford book 'Match Holders'.

Condition is Fine. There may have been tiny glass eyes at some point, & there is light rubbing to the plating on the extremities & the shell clips but, other than the expected (very light) wear, this is a fine example with a good hinge / opening.

The case measures approx 2 1/4" or 5.8cm in length.