English Torquay Match Striker

This charming match strike is lovely example of English Torquay red earthenware pottery. A wonderful addition to a match strike, English art pottery, or redware collection. This piece is known as "motto ware" bearing the double entendre "A match for any man" ringing the base. The matches are stored in the reservoir and then lighted on the rough exterior surface of the well rim. Mark of Watcombe Tourquay with an incised 44.

Torquay is a collective of regional potters in the South Devon area of England near the seaside town of Torquay. Founded in the 1860's, this group of fabricators have become to be known as "Torquay" for the common traits of their red earthenware -- slip glazes, written mottos (often quite witty), and arts & crafts rustic styling. Some compare it to Dutch Delft or French Quimper pottery in its charming simplicity. Some pottery houses are identifiable by marks; others are categorized in this group simply based on aesthetic.

We have acquired a huge collection of Torquay and other European match strikes. Please take a look!

Dimensions: 4ʺW × 4ʺD × 3.25ʺH.

Very good antique condition; brilliant colors, no chips, no crack, no crazing. Small glaze flaw on the underside (not seen when in use) and crazing around the mark, also on the underside, (only visible under magnification). Please note that strikable (not safety matches) are required.

Free local pickup; otherwise shipped via economical parcel post.