Antique Match Holder Appraisal

Art Deco Style Bronze Match Striker or Holder

This item is an Art Deco style match striker or holder, crafted from what appears to be bronze or a bronze-finished metal given its rich, reddish-brown hue and metallic sheen. The piece features a multi-component construction, beginning with a square, stepped base. The base has two distinct tiers, with the lower tier being slightly larger, providing stability. Resting on the upper tier of the base is a decorative wreath-like element, possibly depicting laurel leaves or a similar organic motif, which encircles the central shaft. This wreath shows good detail in its casting, suggesting a reasonable level of craftsmanship. A slender, baluster-shaped shaft rises from the center of the wreath, supporting the main body of the item. The primary functional part is a rectangular, box-like container with vertically fluted or ribbed sides, giving it a distinctive Art Deco aesthetic. The fluting runs uniformly along the visible front and possibly all four sides of the container. The overall color is a warm, aged brown with hints of coppery red, consistent with patinated bronze. Minor wear and surface irregularities are visible, particularly on the edges of the base and the fluted container, indicating age and use. There are no obvious major damages like dents or cracks, but the patina might show some variations. No discernible maker's marks or signatures are visible from the provided images, which would require closer inspection. Its design strongly suggests an early to mid-20th-century period, specifically drawing from the geometric and stylized forms popular in the Art Deco era.