This matchbox dates from the early 20th century and represents how matches could be packaged as advertising material.
The top of the matchbox has a picture of a steamship at sea and, above, the name 'DUNDEE, PERTH & LONDON SHIPPING CO. LD.' The matchbox would have been used as advertising for the company.
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.
To search on related items, click any underlined text below.