Chinese Export Cantonese silver match box vesta case. (which is released by compressing either side). In 1826, John Walker, a chemist in Stockton on Tees, discovered through lucky accident that a stick coated with chemicals burst into flame when scraped across his hearth at home. He went on to invent the first friction match. Stamped with a character mark. Maker’s mark for. No damage, bruises, holes or repairs. Some minor age related surface marks. Free from any later engraved presentation inscriptions or monograms. Clean and ready for use or display.