Matchbox & matches

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This matchbox and safety matches were produced in the early 20th century by Bryant and May Ltd of London. It contains 31 matches, one of which is spent.

The matches are made of a soft-wood, sliver-tipped with red phosphorus.

Sulphur matches or 'spunks' have a long history, and may have been used by the Romans. Chemical methods of making fire were developed in the late 18th century and in the 1830s the first phosphorous matches - 'Congreves' - were introduced.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-100-102-368-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  H.MGP 18
• Date: Early 20th century
  
• Material: Match, safety / box
  
• Dimensions:
• What: Match, safety / box
  
• Subject: Matches, of all kinds and containers (NMAS Classification)
  
• Who: Bryant and May (Maker)
  
• Where: England, London
  
• Event:
• Description: Box of Bryant and May safety matches, London, early 20th century
  
• References:
• Translations:
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