Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a charming, pocket-sized lithographed steel container designed to hold spare miniature incandescent light bulbs for early automobiles. Featuring the classic General Electric script logo and the historic 'National Mazda' branding, it represents the dawn of standardized automotive electrical lighting.
Story
Before modern headlights, driving at night was a dangerous gamble using flickering oil lamps. In 1909, GE revolutionized travel by introducing tungsten-filament 'Mazda' bulbs, named after the Persian god of light. This pocket tin allowed early motorists to carry fragile spare bulbs safely over bumpy dirt roads.
Maker / Origin
General Electric, co-founded by Thomas Edison in 1892, pioneered commercial electrical systems. The 'Mazda' trademark was a collaborative brand name used by GE and its licensees to signify the highest standard of tungsten filament technology, establishing a global benchmark for brightness and efficiency.
Condition & Value
The tin shows moderate surface wear, minor paint loss, and notable rust/oxidation along the bottom rim and interior edges. The lithographed graphics on the lid and sides remain legible and retain good color contrast.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.