Vintage French Matchstrike

A wonderfully graphic find from the markets of France, this Vintage French Advertising Match Strike once brought both convenience and a clever bit of promotion to the counter of a neighborhood café, bistro, or bar. Produced for Vve Henri David, a distiller based in Le Mans, the gleaming white ceramic base is emblazoned in bold red lettering advertising Quinquina Rouge Royal and Framboise—a wonderfully evocative reminder of France's rich tradition of apéritifs and fruit liqueurs.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, French wine and spirits producers supplied cafés and bars with an extraordinary array of branded advertising pieces designed to keep their names quite literally before the eyes of customers. From pitchers and ashtrays to match strikes such as this one, these practical objects became fixtures of everyday café life while doubling as colorful advertisements for the drinks served behind the bar.

Wonderfully handsome in form, this example pairs bold typography with a simple white ceramic body. Matches were stored upright in the opening at the top, while the deeply ridged, unglazed surface surrounding it provided a convenient place for striking a match. Its generously proportioned base proudly displays the names of the distiller and its wares, the beautifully timeworn red lettering lending the piece an irresistible sense of history and character.

Light a match in true fashion with ease by simply striking a strike anywhere match along the unglazed match holder that rises from the center of the gleaming white base. With its smart design and handy function, this lucky find is sure to become a focal point in the bar, study or entry hall, serving matches with elegant antique style for generations to come. 

Strictly one-of-a-kind and subject to prior sale. Strike anywhere matches not included. In very good vintage condition. 4"D x 3 3/4"H.