German FlintlockTinder Lighter, 18th C

The tinder lighter was a very useful invention for its time, before the invention of the match
in 1826.  Fire has been a human necessity since the beginning of human existence and
presented a challenge to mankind for millennia .  The flintlock tinder lighter used the
action of a flint against steel to create a spark to ignite highly flammable materials such as
paper, wood shavings, cloth, etc.  Once lit, the tinder would be used to light a candle,
which could then be used to make larger fires.  This example of iron features an entirely
external flintlock mechanism attached to a rectangular body mounted on four decorative
turned iron legs.  The reverse of the body has a hinged door fastened with a rotating catch
which uncovers a compartment to hold tinder; candle holder mounted on the outside of
this door.  Wood handle (split but sound) at the rear with brass ferrule and cap. In
untouched condition with dark brown age patina.  Even contains a piece of period tinder
inside the compartment!.  Overall length 8 ½", height 3 1/4".