Vintage United Service Club Silverplate Matchbox Stand with Ashtray

For the home bar that has almost everything, we are pleased to present this Vintage Silverplate Matchbox Stand with Ashtray. Found at a silver market in the north of England, this exquisite matchbox stand with clever ashtray is designed to keep a box of matches always at the ready.

Rising confidently above the artfully curved weighted ashtray base, the striking matchbox holder gives this handsome piece a certain beauty and sculptural presence all its own. Produced in 1961 in dazzling silverplate by the prolific silversmiths at Elkington & Co. for the United Service Club, this matchbox stand and ashtray would have seen use at the club's Pall Mall headquarters in London.

Founded in 1815, the United Service Club was the most prestigious (and expensive!) of all the London military clubs, limited to senior officers of the British Army and Royal Navy (those above the rank of Major or Commander). Its headquarters were designed by renowned architect John Nash and had a special stone step for the Duke of Wellington, a club member, so he could arrive at the club in style by simply dismounting directly from his horse onto the step.

Surprising, well-designed and debonair for sure, this Vintage Silverplate Matchbox Stand with Ashtray is the complete package - functional and good-looking. Sure to be a fun conversation piece and make quite the impression at your next smart gathering or soirée.

Strictly one-of-a-kind and subject to prior sale. In very good vintage condition. 5"D, 4" H (with matches), 3.5"H (without matches). Match Box with matches included as shown.