Vintage Victorian Brass Clenched Fist with Ruffled Cuff Match Holder Vesta Case

Description

1 7/8ths inches tall, 1 1/8
th
inches wide, 7/8ths inches deep and weighing 0.6 of an ounce, this brass clenched fist match holder with its ruffled cuff most probably dates to the Victorian era.   I got it in England.  Oddly, there is no striker unless the ruffles of the cuff can be used as one.   The gesture of the placement of the thumb has many meanings, depending on the country or culture where it is used.  T
he “
mano fico”
is a gesture of Roman origin, used as a positive gesture to encourage good luck and fertility, and ward away the ‘evil eye’. It has a sexual nuance in some cultures and the more vulgar
equivalent of “bug off” in other cultures, including Ukraine.
The tension bar is present and functions as it should to maintain the lid open to retrieve a match and to help the lid snap shut.
This match holder is in close to excellent condition although it could use a good cleaning.
Postage should be around depending on where the match holder is going.  I do not charge for packing or handling.  Thank you for your interest and your bid.