Humanity and the gods co-exist in the vivid world of Indian matchbox art, as in the everyday life of India itself.

Redstone matchboxes are inspired by the miniaturist magic of matchbox label art. All over the world, unknown artists have used this throwaway medium to make jokes and set puzzles, to celebrate the natural world, to charm, instruct and amuse.

Every minute, day and night, in a thousand places, East, West, North, South, at the lighting of a million cigarettes, oil lamps and gas stoves, the subliminal glimpse of a matchbox label accompanies the elemental thrill of sparking fire!

• 24 cards in set (Full complete Set)

• Set Published in March 1998 by Redstone

• All cards are in pristine condition (they are blank, unmarked and have never been written on)

• The box has normal shelf wear

• Cards measure 6”x4”

• Original Slide Box

The back can be used as a postcard and denotes in the corner where the original matchbox art came from.

The postcards measure 6 inches X 4 inches and are made on smooth card stock.

The box has an insert the cards sit on (shown) in black and white graphics.

Pre-owned but unused, a complete set in very good Vintage condition.

CHRONICLE BOOKS

ISBN 0-8118-2122-6

90000

1780811 821223 

Compilation copyright © 1998 by Redstone Press. All rights reserved. Made in China

With all the zany vibrancy of a Bollywood musical, the colorful matchbox labels of LIGHT OF INDIA present a fascinating confluence of popular culture and a sophisticated graphic arts tradition that stretches back for centuries. Populated with pouncing Bengal tigers, regal jungle elephants, and Hindu gods and goddesses, these cards depicting miniature masterpieces are worlds unto themselves, skillfully illustrated with a naive yet irresistible charm. 

These delightful post cards is sure to fire the imagination of all who wish to study, preserve, and celebrate India's more humble, but no less brilliant, visual arts heritage. 

A dazzling collection of 24 vintage matchbox labels from India, dating from the turn of the century through the 1950s. A picturesque parade of Hindu iconography, recurring visual themes and symbols, and the cultural and historical significance of matchbox art. A great resource for graphic artists and designers, collectors of paper ephemera or advertising art, and students of Indian culture. 

Vintage Labels, Vintage Graphics, Indian Prints

All measurements though carefully taken should be considered approximate  

Please see and examine all pictures for details, they are considered part of the description 

 

Items are sold “AS IS” and NO RETURNS unless otherwise listed with conditions 

 

We used recycled boxes to help keep shipping rates as low as possible, we will always try to use suitable boxes for your item, but may have company logos, writings, or markings. 

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