Tunbridge Ware “Go-To-Bed”

Before the widespread availability of electric light, these little items were important around the house. They consisted of the storage space for small tapers or matches, the striking surface to the base, and the (often bone) holding element to the top of the lid. They came in many forms. This one has a place for a taper or thin candle in the stick ware holder to the top. It also has a place for the match in the bone holder. The top lifts off to show the three compartments for different sized combustible elements. Then there is the mosaic body of the piece which is octagonal, going to the base. This unscrews to another small compartment. Underneath is the striker for non-safety matches. These items were often used as sealing wax outfits too, so they feature in desk sets. The beautifully turned base wood for the top and bottom sections is probably Laburnum, giving shades from dark brown to light drab. A quite delightful item that incorporates all the aspects of manufacture within an interesting historical piece.