The Matchstick Holders Of Old

Before matches existed, people used simple vases to store thin sticks or rolled paper called spills. These tools allowed people to transfer flames from a fireplace to light candles or pipes.

Lighting a fire used to be a major production, so keeping a burning source handy was essential. People rolled scraps of paper or shaved slivers of wood to act as makeshift torches. They would dip these spills into the hearth to catch a flame and then carry the fire across the room. These elegant holders were once a common household necessity before the invention of the modern matchbook.