Tunbridge Ware – A Match Box with Lift Off Lid and Striking Paper c1885

Description

Heading : Tunbridge Ware – A Match Box with Lift Off Lid and Striking Paper
Date : c1885
Period : Victorian
Origin : Tunbridge Wells; England
Decoration : Simple geometric borders surrounding the word MATCHES to the top of the lid; repeating five-square geometric patterns around the sides of both top and bottom parts; striking paper (now worn) affixed to the base
Size :  6.4 x 3.4 x 1.9 cm
Condition : Excellent; no losses; a tiny sliver of veneer missing form one end
Restoration : none
Weight :  17 grams

Notes : Henry Hollamby is generally considered to have been the first to create lettering in Tunbridge Ware on anything like a commercial scale. having come across the very early. formative use of the technique whilst an apprentice under the Burrows family in the 1830’s (examples of their work can be found on pieces which include the Prince of Wales’ feathers with their ‘Ich Dien’ motto). After Hollamby had perfected the process. it was then taken up by Boyce. Brown & Kemp in later years; the general form of this small box would suggest that it is from the latter source.