Luxury: Upholstered Silver Minerva Safety Matchsafe, Circa 1880

Beautiful little matchbox from hallmarked silver, thick, with a gilt interior.
It opens with hinge and two thumb rests.
Lid is pierced of a superb, large flower; these openings are filled with colored glass-enamel, the famous plique-à-jour technique found in luxury jewelry.
There is no silversmith's hallmark, but it does bear Minerva hallmark.
Striker for sulfur matches is located under hinge.
Height 5 cm, width 4 cm x 1 cm, weight approximately 35 g.
Overall good condition; But tip of one petal of flower has been touched up with a drop of resin to conceal a chip.
You might not have noticed it if I hadn't mentioned it. (red arrows)
A very rare and luxurious matchsafe, perhaps unique! Buy it now, payable by credit card or PayPal. - Eclectic - We're not experts, but we've been in the business for over 50 years. Hassle-free refund if you're not satisfied. Company registration number (SIRET): FR24.430113233. Invoice and certificate included with every shipment.