This interesting figural match safe or vesta features the likeness of Christopher Columbus. This type is called a figural match safe, as it is a three dimensional representation of an object; in this case, a bust of Columbus. It was patented Oct. 25th, 1892 for the World’s Fair. It is silver plate on brass and has wear to the silver, but nonetheless has a nice patina and a crisp image. It is in very good working order. The hinge pops open nicely with the push button.
It measures 2 3/8" X 1 3/4". The World's Fair Columbian Exposition, celebrating the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus's landing in America, was actually held in 1893, a year later than had been planned in Chicago.
