Art Nouveau Match Holder / Ashtray

This lovely C.1910 Syracuse / O.P. Co. matchbox holder / ashtray is a wonderful decorative accessory with an interesting history. Use it as intended or re-purpose as a ring catchall or desk accessory for paper clips, etc.

The striker is in the Thebes pattern (#59201) which was introduced to the Syracuse product line in 1910 and was a custom made line of china for the MKT (Mo/Ks/Tx) Railroad. The Art Nouveau design reflects the early 20th C. interest in Egyptian motifs as the stylized pattern harkens back to that method of decoration. The pattern is often (mistakenly) referred to as "Egyptian Emblems" based on a catalogue description at the time. The same blank was used for the Rutland Railroad, but pieces bore the railroad's crest. It is described in the Syracuse catalogue as being white / green / non-metallic gold, but we would see the gold as more orange in color. Faint mark on underside of O.P. Co. Syracuse with an illegible date code.

Excellent condition with bright graphics, no chips, no crazing, no cracks.

Free local pickup; otherwise shipped via economical parcel delivery.