Rare Brass 'Crusaders Tomb' Match holder Designed by John Bell c.1850 for the Art Union London

Length:11cm ( 4.25 inches)

Designed in brass as the tomb of a Crusader with a match holder hole to either side of the Crusaders Head. The hinged top of the  tomb forms the cover. 

This shape was also made by Minton & Co. in parian and majolica. Cast iron versions  were also produced to form paper weights.

A example of the Crusaders Tomb Matchbox appears in "The Catalogue of English Art-Manufactures" by Cundall & Addey, 21, Old Bond Street, London, 1850 ( see Victoria & Albert Museum

for more information on the sculptor John Bell see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Bell_(sculptor)