Matchbox Label Collection |
 We are pleased to be displaying at Cato Street the matchbox label collection of leading collector David Figg. Entitled “Strike a Light!” the award winning collection is an insight into the world of Phillumeny. Phillumeny is the name given to the collecting of matchbox labels and related ephemera, which includes postcards on a phillumenic theme. Did you know our own movie star Chips Rafferty was a collector (under his real name) and that King Farouk of Egypt was also an avid collector? Matchbox label collecting is actually an older hobby that stamp collecting as the friction match was invented in 1827 and labels started to adorn the product shortly afterwards and before the adhesive postage stamp was introduced in 1841. As with stamps almost any topic imaginable has appeared on a matchbox label. There are many avenues for research, including the history of the factories and their issues. A couple of examples - The Match Girls Strike at Bryant & May's, London in 1888 fighting for fair wages and working conditions. The establishment of the Salvation Army Match Factory in 1891 and their motto of "Fair Wages for Fair Work" As with stamps, it can be an inexpensive hobby that affords much enjoyment and satisfaction. Please come and see our display at Charles Leski Auctions, 13 Cato Street, Hawthorn East. |