A charming antique Victorian sterling silver vesta case made by the delightfully named jewellery firm Payton, Pepper Ltd. We have previously handled silver lockets by this maker and the quality is consistently exceptional. The case is fully hallmarked for Chester 1901, a particularly collectible assay office prized by enthusiasts of antique British silver. The historic Chester assay office finally closed its doors in 1962, making surviving Chester silver especially appealing to collectors today.
What truly sets this piece apart is its wonderfully tiny size — the smallest silver vesta we have encountered. Its scale suggests it may originally have been intended for wear on a lady’s chatelaine or long guard chain. Remarkably, the case still retains fifteen miniature wax vesta matches — an exceptionally unusual survival that gives the piece tremendous period charm and authenticity.
The matches themselves are especially interesting. Measuring a diminutive 3cm in length, they are perfectly proportioned to the tiny case. “Wax Vestas” were among the earliest friction matches, patented by William Newton and named after Vesta, the Roman goddess of fire and the hearth. Small protective containers for these matches began appearing in the early nineteenth century to guard against accidental ignition. In Britain these containers became known as “vesta cases”, “vesta boxes” or simply “vestas”.
Beautifully made with a crisp diagonal ribbed design and a striker to the underside, the case has a wonderfully weighty feel for its size and retains a silver suspension ring, allowing it to be worn today as an unusual antique pendant. The long antique guard chain shown in selected photographs is for styling purposes only and is not included. The vintage silver chain shown in the remaining photographs will accompany the piece.
A rare and wonderfully wearable survivor, this tiny silver vesta combines the charm of antique jewellery with the fascination of a true collector’s piece — perfect for lovers of distinctive antique silver and conversation-starting jewellery.
THE DETAILS
MAKER: Payton, Pepper Ltd.
DATE: 1901, Late Victorian
METAL: Sterling silver
HALLMARKS: Full set to inner rim – "PP Ld.", lion passant for sterling silver, Chester assay mark (wheatsheaves & sword within shield) and date letter "A" for 1901
MEASUREMENTS: 3.5cm tall x 2.1cm wide
WEIGHT: 15.9 grams
CONDITION: Very good antique condition with light surface wear consistent with age and use. No noted flaws.
________________________
At Mercy Madge, we specialise in quality antique and vintage jewellery, carefully sourced throughout Great Britain. Every piece is professionally cleaned and polished, ensuring it is ready to wear, enjoy, or present as a thoughtful gift.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
* Free Worldwide Shipping
We are pleased to offer complimentary worldwide shipping on all purchases.
* Returns Policy
If for any reason you are not completely satisfied, you may return your item for a refund. Please contact us within 3 days of receiving your order and return the item within 7 days.
* Gemstone Testing & Measurements
All gemstones have been tested and verified using a Presidium Gemstone Tester. Please note that all measurements and stated carat weights are approximate.
* Photography & Scale
Our photographs are taken in extreme close-up to show every fine detail. As a result, minor imperfections may appear more pronounced in images than they do to the naked eye. Close-up photography can also make pieces appear larger on screen, so we recommend referring carefully to the written description for precise dimensions.
* Gifting
Purchasing as a gift? Your jewellery will arrive beautifully gift wrapped in a custom Mercy Madge jewellery box. Please note that unless otherwise stated, any antique boxes shown in photographs are for display purposes only and are not included in the sale.