Tinderboxes

Date1800s

Terms

Tinderboxes
Steel
Quartz
Oak
Pine

Dimensions25.38 × 5.08 × 12.69 cm (10 × 2 × 5 in.)

Credit LineGift of Mr. Russell H. Kettell

Object numberH1549

DescriptionTinderbox (H1549): contains two flints (H1549a,b) and steel (H1549c), as well as a broken wooden dowel (unnumbered). Front panel of box slides in grooves on sides and bottom of box, slides out top to open. Bottom groove lines with cloth. Divided inside into two compartments of about equal size. Box tapers from top to bottom slightly, top and bottom panels at slight angles. Front panel (cover) has convex front surface, beveled at lower edge to fit groove in box. Top edge of front panel scalloped. Two fingerholds carved into top of front panel; below them relief carving of a deer head. Front, sides, top, and bottom stained dark brown (?). Steel is "U" shaped with one arm flat for striking, other pointed (for handle?). Hole in back panel of box for hanging. Made of tin(?).