'Fanny Legrand' Vesta Case, 1887

Fanny Legrand, the lead character in the novel "Sapho" by Alphonse Daudet, is the red-headed woman descending the stairs in a black dress on the front of this enameled silver vesta case.The original oil on canvas of this scene was painted by the Italian artist Spiridon Ignace in 1884 and was later used to publicise "Sapho" the American play adaptation written by Clyde Fitch. The play caused uproar when it opened and Olga Nethersole, who played Fanny, was tried and later acquitted for violating public decency.The play became an important counterpoint in the USA from Victorian morality to the more liberal attitudes of the 20th century.

This interesting, book-form enamelled vesta case was made by the Birmingham firm of Horton & Allday and has a gilt interior and striker to one end. It is in excellent condition throughout.

More can be read about Olga Nethersole and Sapho on Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sapho_(play)