This is a very collectable antique cast iron match holder. It was made in Germany and is impressed with maker's details on the reverse. This reads Verlag Bei / E.G. Zimerman / Hanau.
It is very High Gothic in design - and the main plaque section is shaped like a Rococo shield. There are two little devil like faces to the bottom at each side and there are also two strange little feet at the bottom.
The central section of the plaque has a Classical head - it is very finely modelled. I think that the head is that of a Valkyrie as it has large wings on his helmet. Above her helmet there is an aperture or little basket section - where you might pop in little matches or similar items. You would put the plaque onto a wall - there is a cast iron hanging band at the top - which takes the form of a chain.
These little match holders would probably have been placed on a wall at the side of a mantlepiece so that you had a ready supply of matches to light a candle. The texture on the edge of the plaque would probably been used as a striker.
It is such a lovely piece and in such great condition. I think that it dates to the late 19th century / early 20th century - but it is most definitely a rare antique item.
I am so lucky that I actually have two of these quirky Valkyrie decorations. I have listed them separately as A and B. Both are identical and in the same excellent damage free condition.
It measures about 5 1/2 inches in overall height - and the width at the widest point is roughly 4 inches.
I have taken lots of images for your inspection.
I will cap the postage on each one in the UK at £5.50 for Royal Mail Recorded Delivery. I can post to Non-EU locations.