S/5562 Antique Treen 19th Century Lignum Vitae Go To Bed

An exceptionally well carved early 19th century lignum vitae go to bed, having a bone finial to receive a match. The body, with extensive engine turned decoration, is in two sections with a screw thread, revealing a vacant interior for the storage of matches. These charming items of treen were used in place of candles (which were expensive) and gave enough light 'to go to bed'. They were also used for melting sealing wax for letters and documents. The whole has a rich colour and retains a patination.

Sold 2½ in. (6.5 cm.) High
1½ in. (4 cm.) Diameter English Circa 1820