Delightful antique Victorian era hand carved c. 1880s, Swiss Black Forest souvenir trade item, a match or toothpick holder with fox hiding or crouching in the tree roots! Entirely carved of a single piece of wood, wonderful detail and anatomy on the fox with long bushy tail and cautious but stealthy pose. The base of this one marked "Lucerne", backing up our claim that these were often souvenir pieces. One of two similar pieces that we're adding this week, both featuring a fox and each with similar form and function. Fabulous grouped and displayed or just perfect for matches in the kitchen or on fireplace mantel!
Very good to excellent condition for age and type. There appears to be a small chip to the top rim of the hollow log/tree section. Also, what looks like an old worm/bug hole or two but nothing active. Remarkable condition for age!
