Austrian Gilt Sterling Silver Vesta Case with Armorial Crest
Vesta Case (Match Safe) · Franz Steinhausen & Sohn Juweliere, Wien. A prestigious Viennese jeweler located at Neubaugasse 65, active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, known for high-quality silver and luxury goods.
Pattern: Bespoke/Commissioned Personal Accessory featuring an applied armorial crest representing an aristocratic family or noble title.
Type
Vesta Case (Match Safe)
Maker
Franz Steinhausen & Sohn Juweliere, Wien. A prestigious Viennese jeweler located at Neubaugasse 65, active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, known for high-quality silver and luxury goods.
Material
Sterling silver (.925) or high-grade Austrian silver (.800 or .900) with heavy gold wash (Vermeil/Gilt). Original velvet and silk-lined presentation box.
Dimensions
Approximately 5cm x 3.5cm x 1cm; estimated weight 30-45 grams. Hand-sized for pocket carry.
Description
This elegant vesta case represents the height of Viennese luxury. Encased in its original scarlet leather presentation box from Franz Steinhausen & Sohn, the piece features a brilliant gold-gilt finish over solid silver. The front is adorned with an intricate noble crest, suggesting a piece commissioned for a person of stature. Its sleek, rounded corners and slim profile made it a functional yet sophisticated accessory for a gentleman's waistcoat pocket.
Key Features
Original fitted presentation box from a documented Vienna jeweler; high-relief applied crest; surviving suspension ring.
Material & Composition
Sterling silver (.925) or high-grade Austrian silver (.800 or .900) with heavy gold wash (Vermeil/Gilt). Original velvet and silk-lined presentation box.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish gilt surface with applied relief armorial crest. The crest features a coronet (likely a count or baron) atop a quartered shield.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Austro-Hungarian hallmarks likely located on the rim or neck of the hinge; likely including the Diana Head (for 1872-1922) and the 'FS' maker's mark within a rectangle or lozenge.
Construction Details
Constructed from die-struck silver sheets, hand-soldered, with a spring-loaded tension hinge and a bottom strike-plate for matches.
Functional Features
Spring-flip lid for moisture protection, suspension ring for attachment to an Albert chain (pocket watch chain), and textured strike-plate on the underside.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A; features a primary suspension loop for attachment.
Craftsmanship Details
Evident in the precision of the hinge alignment and the fine detail of the tiny applied coronet and shield. The strike-plate on the bottom would have been hand-cut or machine-pressed for maximum friction.
Authentication Indicators
Retailer signature on box lining matches Austrian jeweler records; hallmark placement typical for vesta cases of this period; gold-wash quality is consistent with Viennese excellence.
Origin & Manufacturing
Vienna (Wien), Austria. Manufactured in a specialized workshop for high-end boutique retail.
Era & Period
Austro-Hungarian Empire, late Victorian to Edwardian era (approx. 1890-1915). Characterized by high-quality Viennese craftsmanship.
Age Estimate
Circa 1900. Dating based on the retailer's address history and the style of the armorial coronet.
Cultural Significance
Symbolizes the social rituals of smoking and the display of noble status and wealth in the Austro-Hungarian imperial society prior to WWI.
Condition Notes
Excellent/Very Good. The gilt finish shows minimal wear. The spring hinge appears functional. Minor surface micro-scratching from handling. Box shows light aging.
Value Estimate
$400 - $750 USD. Value is driven by the original box, the identification of the crest, and the high-grade Viennese maker.
Care & Maintenance
Gentle hand-polishing with a soft micro-fiber cloth only. Avoid silver dips which will strip the thin layer of gold gilding. Store in the original box with anti-tarnish strips.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. Sterling Vesta Cases (often more ornate/floral), English Victorian Vesta Cases (usually silver without gilding), Russian Fabergé Vestas (significantly more expensive with enamel).
Interesting Facts
Vesta cases were essential before the invention of the lighter, protection for 'strike-anywhere' matches. The address Neubaugasse 65 is still a historical district in Vienna famous for its artisanal heritage.