ANTIQUE MATCHBOX CASE - 19th century deals faux tortoise bakelite matchbox case with gold plated inlays

Late 19th century Napoleon III 19th century matchbox case in faux tortoiseshell bakelite with gold plated inlays.

The shape of this case is very simple but pretty. The body assumes a simple rectangle, with rounded edges and corners. It closes with a single hinge. The body was fashioned out of two pieces joint together along the edges. The base of the case displays a criss cross pattern which would have been used to strike the matches. It is almost completely worn out, a testament to how much the case deals was used and enjoyed! One side was inlaid a single gold plated inlaid thread going around the body. There is on small square medallion that never was engraved with a monogram.

The condition is age and use appropriate, with no chips to the bakelite. The surface has a nice shine and some very light scratches, mostly on the plain side of the case which would have served as the bottom. Those are consistent with use, but they do not stand out when the case is laid on a surface, nor do they deter from its beauty.

The case measures 3 3/8" in length by 2 3/8" in width. It is 5/8" thick.

If you collect faux tortoise cases, please check my second store on Etsy:
https://www.etsy.com/shop/LAntiqueDemeure