Vintage Bryant & May Advertising Lot – Wax Tapers Tube with Contents & Swan Vestas Tin – British Match & Lighting Collectables
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Step into the warm glow of Britain’s domestic past with this charming Bryant & May collector’s set, bringing together two delightful pieces of everyday lighting history from one of the nation’s most iconic household names.
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This carefully paired lot tells the story of how homes were lit, fires were kindled, and candles were brought to life long before modern convenience — practical objects elevated by design, branding, and craftsmanship.
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Included in this set
1. Bryant & May Wax Tapers Tube (with contents)
A decorative black tube featuring elegant gilt chinoiserie-style scenes and borders. The tube is labelled “Bryant & May’s Wax Tapers – London” and still contains a selection of original wax vestas (lighting tapers).
Wax tapers were widely used in the late Victorian and Edwardian periods to light candles, oil lamps, fires, and pipes — a cleaner and more refined alternative to loose matches. Designed to sit neatly on a mantelpiece or writing desk, this example reflects the period’s love of decorative everyday objects.
Estimated date: c. 1890–1910
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2. Bryant & May “Swan Vestas” Advertising Tin
A square metal tin decorated with a colourful collage of historic Bryant & May match labels, including the famous Swan Vestas branding. These tins were produced in the mid-to-late 20th century as promotional or commemorative pieces celebrating the company’s long heritage.
The Swan brand became one of the most recognised match names worldwide, symbolising reliability and the comforting ritual of hearth and home.
Estimated date: c. 1960s–1980s
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Why this set works so well
Together, these pieces represent two eras of Bryant & May history — from Victorian domestic lighting to later heritage advertising. Ideal for collectors of:
Advertising memorabilia
Match and vesta collectibles
Kitchenalia and fireside accessories
British industrial heritage
Vintage display and mantel décor
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Condition
Wax taper tube: age-related wear, surface rubbing and patina consistent with use and age. Decoration remains attractive and legible. Contains a number of original wax tapers (some age marks present).
Swan tin: light wear and minor surface marks consistent with age and use.
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Both items are clean, sound, and display beautifully.
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Please view photographs carefully as they form part of the description.
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A little history
Founded in the mid-19th century, Bryant & May became one of Britain’s most important match manufacturers, supplying households across the country and around the world. Their products were both practical and reassuringly familiar — small objects that played a daily role in lighting homes, fires, and lives.
Today, their decorative packaging and accessories remain highly collectible reminders of Britain’s industrial and domestic heritage
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These items could be sold separately. Please email us for details.