A Victorian wooden Wellington boot match holder in original gilt, black, oyster white and red paint. 
Constructed of pine wood and carved in the form of a settled and used men's boot and features creased folds on the reverse. Original paint decoration ornaments the exterior in gilt color with a red painted collar top. 
Formed in response for the Wellington boot's fashion migrating to the United States during the last half of the 19th c.,  this wooden match holder falls within the fashion and utilization of a popularized trend. 
Remains in excellent condition with the most minimal wear from period use and exhibits a fine painted surface with historical traits. 
American. Ca. 1880. 5 1/4"T.