Vintage matchboxes from around the world

Mankind’s command of fire is arguably what separates us from the animals on a most basic level. The ability to package that kind of power in a tiny cardboard box and put it in your pocket is nothing short of awe inspiring. No wonder the matchboxes of old used to be adorned with images of battle and grandeur. The bleed and misregistered printing only adds to the appeal. Oh, there are also a few toothpick boxes in the mix. I mean of course reigning supreme over God’s creation with something in your teeth would be simply disgraceful…

Note to Australian gingers: please remember to wear the correct protective mask when using safety matches.

From a Livejournal post by valaamov_osel and a Flickr set by Shailesh Chavda.