Pair of Antique Folk Art Brass Boot Match Holders Le Arpie Gentili 1940s I believe

1940s I believe

The sides of the basket are finished with two large circular ash ring handles which are bound with ash splints

and signed on the underside

I assume made by a kid in art class

presumed antique condition

Pair of Antique Folk Art Brass Boot Match Holders Le Arpie Gentili 1940s I believeOne sees Victorian brass mantle display boots from time to time, which I believe were often given as wedding gifts and meant to bring good luck. But these folk creations, of thinner cut brass, are American I believe, with match holders welded onto their backs. Great forms I really love these long pointy toes etched with pinprick type detailing for the eyeholes and along the tops, toes and heels. Very homespun feeling and very sweet. Found in Maine.