Messages

1

Antique Questions Forum / Re: What the Heck is this?

« on: April 19, 2010, 04:10:37 pm »

Boy oh boy, at least I now know how the read the marks on the "What the Heck is this?" piece. Still don't know its original purpose - looked at so many match safes online - none in anyway resembled this little box. Too small to be a tea caddy, wrong shape to be a cigarette case. Lots of us here at A-s.com have invested much time, to no avail. So the James Dixon & Sons EPBM item is headed towards eBay - wish me luck! And thanks for your efforts.

2

Antique Questions Forum / Re: What the Heck is this?

« on: April 15, 2010, 06:00:23 pm »

Because there is no closure (hook, clasp) on the lid, it seems the match safe (if that is indeed what it is) wasn't made to travel, but more likely to sit atop a table. I doubt it contained any liquids or powders - if the container were to be knocked over, the contents would spill.

It has no scratch marks on the inside that would indicate a pattern of usage - it still has us collectively stumped!

3

Antique Questions Forum / Re: What the Heck is this?

« on: April 14, 2010, 07:33:53 pm »

Well, we've established an origin and a manufacturer for this box that has us stumped.  And I sure couldn't have done it alone! Thank you to everyone who sent links and suggestions. Funny, but the original question remains - what the heck is it?  There seems to be a concensus that it is a pewter matchbox. Second  and third questions - who in 2010 would purchase such an item, and why?

and wait until you see the next item I'll bring before you.

4

Antique Questions Forum / Re: What the Heck is this?

« on: April 14, 2010, 11:06:53 am »

Thought I'd successfully attached the pic of the markings.... gonna try again...

5

Antique Questions Forum / Re: What the Heck is this?

« on: April 14, 2010, 12:05:50 am »

Still a puzzle.  There is no striking surface on the mystery item, no ribbed area. Front to back measurement is about 1 1/4". Two pics added. And thank you all for your help!

6

Antique Questions Forum / What the Heck is this?

« on: April 13, 2010, 06:42:46 pm »

A container with a hinged lid, probably pewter from all of the markings. Marked Made In England as well.  Approx. 2 7/8" tall, 1 7/8" wide, circumference 6" - the container is unlined, so it probably wasn't used for jewelry. Simple design, more square than round. Probably from the 1800's. Any suggestions, guesses appreciated. Took it to two antique stores, neither had a clue. It's shape and design seems more masculine than feminine. There is no engraving - nothing overtly decorative about the piece. Someone suggested it might have held men's collar stays.  Would love to know what this is. It's been in my family for three generations!  Thanks.