This listing is for a lovely early 20th century Oriental Porcelain Cylindrical toothpick box or toothpick holder. This is an Asian tradition of placing a container of toothpicks on salon tables for after eating.
 
The piece is made of thick porcelain glass and is decorated with multi coloured florals and peacocks in shades of pink with green leaves. The hinge is tight and the box opens and closes freely. This beautiful box could also be a nice addition to any Victoriana or dresser box collection. It is in excellent condition with no chips, cracks or repairs.
 
A little History: Toothpick holders are sometimes called toothpicks by collectors. The variously shaped containers used to hold small wooden toothpicks are made of glass, china, or metal. Most of the toothpick holders found today are Victorian. Toothpick holders were a fad that made their appearance in the 1880’s and were, for the most part, out of vogue by the 1910’s. Picking of one’s teeth was considered impolite in the company of others therefore quite collectible items today.
 
An unusual tall box that measures 3" high and 1. 3/4" in diameter.