Lot 640: A Victorian Copper Vesta Case Made from the HMS Foudroyant
A late Victorian commemorative vesta case, or match safe, manufactured from copper salvaged from the wreck of the HMS Foudroyant. The item features a cushion-shaped body with bulbous corners and an attached suspension loop. The central embossed panel depicts the three-masted sailing ship and bears the inscriptions: FOUDROYANT NELSON’S FLAGSHIP, COMMENCED 1788, LAUNCHED 1798, WRECKED 1897, and BLACKPOOL. These commemorative pieces were produced using metal from the vessel after it was wrecked off the coast of Blackpool in 1897.
Condition report:
The piece exhibits surface wear consistent with age, including pervasive tarnish and areas of green verdigris, most notably around the embossed details and seams. The structure remains sound with the suspension loop and hinge present.
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