French 14ct Gold & Enamel Vesta Case - Antique Circa 1900

Description

This exceptional antique French 14ct yellow gold and enamel vesta case has a plain rectangular form with a chamfering upper portion.

The anterior and posterior surfaces of this antique vesta case are embellished with panels of exceptional hot enamel ornamentation incorporating figures dressed in late 19th century attire, entertaining themselves within a stately garden.

Either side of the box is ornamented with a yellow enamel panel accented with the green wording '15c Paris' and 'Allumettes Chimiques' - Chemical Matches.

Each panel is encompassed with a red enamel border in addition to a narrow display of 14 ct yellow gold.

This gold vesta case is fitted with a hinged cover incorporating a plain rounded thumbpiece to the rim.

The cover is further embellished to the anterior surface with an enamel panel depicting a stone structure amidst rural landscaping and a flower basket design to the interior surface.

There is an integrated textured panel/match striker to the underside.

Vesta cases of this style are typically crafted in silver and it is rare to find an example in gold; this indicates the high quality of the piece.

Read a brief history of antique vesta cases