This is a World War One tin plate & celluloid match box cover or grip, almost certainly of British manufacture, and dating to around 1915 - 17.

The front of the case is entitled 'THESE COLOURS WILL NOT RUN', & shows the Allies flags (from R to L) : Belgium, France, Britain, & The Russian Empire.

The spine of the case has 'MATCHES', then a floral design, & 'FOR KING & COUNTRY'.

The reverse of the case shows a (Western Front?) scene of an Army Officer, complete with rifle & bayonet, walking along a ridge with the Union Flag flying behind him, & an Artillery Regiment, firing their guns, below him. The image has the artists initials 'GLA' to the bottom L/H corner, & underneath this is printed "JERNOID" (possibly the manufacturer?).

Similar holders can be found on page 100 in the Alsford/Schiffer book 'Match Holders'.

Condition is Good for age. The holder is structurally strong with no splits. There is the expected foxing to the edges & some very light, surface pitting to the interior..

Dimensions are approx 2 1/2" x 1 5/8" (approx 6.3cm x 4.1cm).