Saffa Collection

Sweden Saffa matchbox. Italy, early 20th century

Box of windproof Minerva matches, made by Saffa, 1930s. Italy, 20th century

Saffa matchboxes, with illustrations of a peasant woman with geese

Saffa matchboxes with women's faces. Italy, early 20th century

Saffa matchbox. Italy, late 19th century

Saffa lighter, 1940s, Italy, 20th century

Saffa matchbox, 1950s. Italy, 20th century

Cylindrical corrugated matchbox made by Saffa, 1930s. Italy, 20th century

Cartridge cases for Saffa matches. Italy, early 20th century

A box of Minerva windproof matches made by Saffa

Boxes of safety matches and windproof matches, made by Saffa. Italy, early 20th century

Saffa fireplace matchbox, depicting a peasant with a toddler and cow

Saffa matchboxes depicting balilla (member of the Fascist Youth Movement) with trumpet and balilla with rifle and book

Saffa matchbox. Italy, early 20th century

Saffa matchbox, with an illustration of a woman. Italy, early 20th century

Saffa fireplace matchbox, with an aerial view of the Saffa factory in Magenta

Saffa matchboxes, depicting horses

Saffa matchboxes with illustrations of soccer (football) players and rabbits

Saffa matchbox with the words Giacomo Deedici & C. Italy, 19th century

Saffa Scintilla (spark) lighter, ca 1940, Italy, 20th century

Mount Lebanon Beirut Aleih Ras-el-Metn District

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EDITORS COMMENTS

Saffa, also known as safflower or Carthamus tinctorius, is an annual plant native to the Middle East and Asia. It belongs to the daisy family (Asteraceae) and has been cultivated for thousands of years due to its versatile uses. The name 'saffa' is derived from the Arabic word 'za'faran', which means yellow or gold, referring to the vibrant color of its flowers. Saffa plants can grow up to 3 feet tall with a spread of around 1-2 feet, featuring bright yellow-orange flowers that are rich in nectar and attract various pollinators. One of the primary uses is as a source of carotenoid pigments used in food coloring. The seeds contain about 30% oil that can be extracted for use in cooking and cosmetics. In addition, saffa seeds have been traditionally used as a natural dye for fabrics. In traditional medicine, various parts of the plant have been employed for their potential health benefits. The roots are believed to possess anti-inflammatory properties while the leaves may help alleviate digestive issues. Saffa cultivation requires well-drained soil with full sun exposure and moderate watering conditions. As it's relatively easy to grow and maintain, this crop has become popular among gardeners interested in growing unique herbs or ornamental plants. While not widely consumed today like other edible oils such as olive oil or coconut oil, saffa seed oil remains an important ingredient in some regional cuisines where it adds distinct flavor profiles due to its mild nutty taste. Its applications extend beyond culinary purposes.