This is a Victorian vesta case or match safe, made of Gilt plated metal & Banded Agate and complete with it's original hinged striking plate, and dating to around 1880.

The case is oblong in form, with Gilt metal mounts enclosing two plaques of Banded Agate which form the top & bottom of the case.

The Gilt mounts have an embossed, flower head, pattern around their circumference & the figured Agate plaques are slightly domed with hand chamfered edges.

The case is hinged lengthways, and opens via a thumb lift to the front to reveal the interior striking plate which, in turn, hinges upwards at one end to reveal a compartment for storing matches.

Condition is good for it's 130 years. Externally, the gilt plating to the mounts is rubbed in places, & there is a very small chip to the lower right hand corner on the top Agate plaque. The hinge & opening / closure are fine.

Internally, the hinged striking plate (which is usually missing in this type of case) has some corrosion & loss of striking material but, is never the less, still sound & complete.

The case measures approx 2 1/2" long, 7/8" wide, & 3/4" deep (approx 6.2cm x 2.2cm x 1.9cm).