PYROGEN DEVIL

Rare wall-mounted pyrogène in metal depicting a devil in a basket.

Good condition, with signs and marks of use.

PERIOD: 19th century
DIMENSIONS: 17 cm x 9 cm
SIZE: 6.7" x 3.5"

This was during the time of Spanish matches, which were ignited by striking them on any rough surface. Before the Swedish safety matches and the first lighters ...
A utilitarian and decorative, even promotional object, the pyrogène was very common in the 19th century in cafés, restaurants, and private salons. With varied forms and decoration, they were made of spelter, bronze, wood, ceramic, silver, or gold. Wall-mounted or freestanding, with or without a base, they had a holder for matches, a striking surface, and sometimes a wick.