A lot of history housed in this great little match-dispenser/striker house, with the August 1914 painted across both long sides marking the month that World War I began. (On August 1, Germany declared war on Russia; three days later they invaded Belgium in order to attack France, which led to a British declaration of war on Germany on August  4.) The painted roof of the house I presume represent the colors of Germany and France on one side, and England on the other--the U.S. did not join the war until 1917. And of course a hoiuse shaped match dispenser and striker makes for a perfect metaphor for a combustible situation / world on fire!  To dispense matches, one lifts the house just a bit, which delivers one match  running across the peak of the roof. The short sides of the house are rough for then lighting it. 

4 1/2" t x 4 1/4" x 4 1/4". Excellent antique condition, and works smoothly once one gets the hang of it. Filled with wooden matches.