Antique German GES GESCH Brass Matchbox Holder Ashtray Art Nouveau Jugendstil

Key Details

Item: Matchbox Holder / Ashtray

Marking: GES. GESCH.

Origin: Germany

Era: Early 20th Century, likely c.1910s–1930s

Style: Art Nouveau / Jugendstil influence

Material: Brass

Height: Approx. 9 cm

Width: Approx. 11 cm

Form: Circular scalloped dish with raised central matchbox holder

Decoration: Embossed and engraved stylised foliate decoration

Maker: Unidentified

The stamped GES. GESCH. marking is an abbreviation of the German Gesetzlich Geschützt, meaning “legally protected” or “registered/protected design”. It is not a manufacturer’s name.

⸻

Mini Story or Hook

A charming early 20th-century German smoking accessory from an era when matches were kept permanently at hand on the table.

This compact brass piece combines a decorative circular ashtray or receiving dish with an upright matchbox holder, supported on a twisted central column. The embossed holder, scalloped dish and stylised engraved decoration give the piece a distinctive Continental Art Nouveau/Jugendstil character.

Stamped GES. GESCH., indicating that the design was legally protected in Germany, it is an appealing survivor of early 20th-century domestic life and a particularly decorative piece of antique smoking-related brassware.

Ideal for collectors of German brassware, matchbox holders, smoking accessories, Art Nouveau/Jugendstil pieces or unusual small antiques.

⸻

Condition

Condition: Good vintage/antique condition – see detailed notes below.

This is an original older brass piece showing appropriate evidence of age and use.

* Attractive aged brass patina throughout.

* Surface marks, scratches, tarnishing and spotting consistent with age.

* Some areas of discolouration are visible to the dish.

* Embossed matchbox holder remains intact and displays well.

* Decorative twisted central support remains secure.

* GES. GESCH. marking remains clearly visible.

* No aggressive polishing has been undertaken, preserving its aged character.

* Modern Redheads matchbox shown in the photographs is for display and scale only and is not included.

📸 The photos form part of the description – please examine them closely.

⸻

Postage & Handling

📦 All items are carefully wrapped and packaged to ensure they arrive safely at their new forever home.

Combined postage available – contact us before purchasing for a revised invoice.

International shipping available on request – please message for a quote.

⸻

Need to Know More?

Have questions or need more photos? We’re happy to help! Just message us and we’ll get back to you promptly.

⸻

Other Info

🛍️ Check out our other items — we specialise in vintage, antique and collectible pieces and are more than happy to bundle items to save on postage.

📲 Follow us @vintagehqcomau on socials and on eBay for more nostalgic finds and stories behind these unique or rare pieces.