Bidspirit auction | Antique Art Nouveau Repousse Pocket

Antique Art Nouveau Repousse Pocket Vesta Case with Maiden Motif - An antique Art Nouveau pocket vesta case, or match safe, crafted from silver-toned metal. The front panel features a high-relief repousse design depicting the head of a long-haired maiden surrounded by flowing, whiplash-style foliate scrolls and poppies. The reverse side is decorated with an ornate rococo-style frame containing a vacant central shield intended for engraving. The bottom of the case features a corrugated striking surface for friction matches. The two halves of the body are joined by a visible vertical seam along the sides. The interior contains a vertical tension spring pin located near the hinge. No hallmarks, maker marks, or metal fineness stamps are visible in the provided images. Height: 2 3/4 inches Width: 1 3/4 inches. This antique item remains in functional condition. The surface exhibits tarnish and a darkened patina throughout, with visible wear to the raised highlights on the maiden’s face and the scrollwork (photo 1). The interior shows darkening and oxidation consistent with age and use (photo 7). The hinged lid is present and functional, showing a slight gap at the seam when closed (photo 3). The corrugated striking surface on the bottom shows signs of wear from historical use (photo 4).