With its Art Deco style references, our matchbook holder was most likely made in the 1930s. It is constructed of sterling silver and decorated with inlaid strips of 14K yellow gold and rose gold and a small rectangular inset containing a floral motif of vaguely Japanese inspiration. The piece is relatively unusual for the period. The demand for match safes, particularly those made of precious materials and with this attention to detail, generally disappeared after World War I when disposable paper matchbooks became ubiquitous. Perhaps the original owner of our stylish example worried about safety issues. Perhaps he or she objected to the advertising which occupied most matchbook covers. Perhaps they just thought it was eloquent of their status or perhaps that the night spots they frequented were no one’s business but their own. Condition: Excellent. Dimensions: 3" x 2".