Safety Match Holder (Vesta)

The base of this box is decorated with a photographic view of Burns Statue in the High Street, Dumfries.  The holder comprises three sections of wood with the two lids linked via a hidden swivel mechanism.  This mechanism was installed to prevent children from finding the matches.   Throughout the 19th century the cult of Burns rose to huge proportions.  Images derived from his life and work, and of the poet himself were frequently used in domestic ornamentation and were to be found in most Scottish homes.  W and A Smith of Mauchline, Ayrshire developed the manufacture of transfer printed treen, or wooden ware which became highly popular as gifts and souvenirs.