Expert: Martin G Roberts - 7/6/2004

Question
Mr. Roberts,

  My mother was given this object that we can not identify what it actually was.  We think it might be a letter/mail holder, or a match holder, but we are at a loss.  How do you find out what this is and if it is indeed as old as we think?

Thank you for your time,

Samantha

Answer
Well, you could try doing some research, studying a few books, etc. ... you'll find it helps!

Quite how I am supposed to help when you tell me nothing about it, I do not know. But if you want an opinion, then it is probably just a desk or table accessory not earlier than mid 19th century and of little interest.