Studio RT Ltd

Description

This is a rather unusual pair of Victorian Copper & Brass Ladies Ankle Boot/Shoe Match Holders. The toe, heel and the studded flap are in brass, while the body of the shoe, with its hammered pattern, is in copper. We hve seen several pairs of taller boots, designed as spill holders, but can only find one other pair of ankle boots or shoes as match holders.

These would have sat on the mantelpiece holding matches to light the fire or, indeed, the pipes of the men of the household. The matches are contained in a receptacle on the back of the boot, and there is a stand to keep them standing upright.

Length: 5 1/4" - 13.3cm

Height: 2 7/8" - 7.25cm

Depth: 1 1/8" - 2.8cm

Condition: Very good, consistent with age. They have the odd dent and ripple to the edges, which only add to their charm.