This is a plated match book holder or cover with a faux butterfly wing decoration of a galleon, by the famous compact manufacturers GWENDA, & made in England around the 1930's.

The hinged holder is rectangular in form & opens / closes via a clip to the front.

The front of the holder has a framed panel containing a clear celluloid panel with a reverse painting of a galleon scene, with an iridescent blue foil background.

Gwenda started using butterfly wings in the 20's, but these were only in production for a short time before being replaced by foil in the 30's.

The holder is marked to the interior with the impressed 'GWENDA - MADE IN ENGLAND'.

Condition is Fine, there is no damage to the panel or foil & the hinge & clasp are excellent. The only point to note is that there are three small spots of surface corrosion to the interior (almost certainly due to chemicals in the matches) - fantastic for it's 70 odd years, please see magnified photos.

The holder measures approx 2 1/4" x 1 5/8" (approx 5.8 cm x 4.3 cm).

Overall, a rare Art Deco period matchbook holder by Gwenda, & in lovely condition.