Vintage Brass Matchbox Holder, Etched Asian Scene & Criterion USSR Matchbox

Item Overview:

Available for purchase is a beautiful Vintage Brass Matchbox Holder featuring an intricate, hand-etched scene of a traditional Asian figure resting beneath a bamboo or palm tree. This elegant "vesta case" is accompanied by its original contents: an empty, period-accurate wooden box of Criterion Impregnated Safety Matches, marked "Made in USSR."

Item Details:

Holder Material: Solid Brass with a natural aged patina.

Design: Both sides features a finely detailed etching of an Oriental figure. The holder includes a cutout on the side to expose the matchbox striking surface.

Matchbox: A rare "Criterion" brand box, a well-known Soviet export from the mid-20th century. The label is intact with bold black and yellow typography.

Condition:

Brass Holder: Excellent vintage condition with a gorgeous, unpolished patina. No major dents or deep scratches.

Matchbox: Good vintage condition for its age. The outer wooden veneer shows light wear consistent with use and storage. The box is empty.

Dimensions (Approximate):

Fits standard-sized small safety matchboxes.

Collector's Note:

This pairing is a wonderful piece of history, likely dating from the late 1930s to the 1950s. The juxtaposition of the Japanese-style brass artistry with the Soviet-produced matches makes this a unique conversation piece for any "tobacciana" or vintage accessory collection.