Description
Birmingham 1831 solid silver vinaigrette with engraved exterior by well known maker Thomas Shaw, maker of vinaigrettes and snuff boxes. This is a very nice early William IV period example.
A vinaigrette is a small box that would be used by both men and women, and would contain a small bit of sponge, placed under the pierced grill, which would be soaked in perfume, aromatic vinegar, or smelling salts. The purpose of this was to cope with the bad smells of the time, when sanitation and personal hygiene were not up to par. One would lift the lid and take a sniff, which would temporarily bring some relief. The well to do carried solid silver vinaigrettes, which would fit easily into handbags or pockets. Sometimes they were also included in large fitted complete travelling sets, with other vanity items.
The hinged lid of the vinaigrette opens to reveal the original gilding, and a beautifully cast and pierced hinged grill in the style that Shaw is known for, having a central flower and fine scrolled detail. The gilding protects the silver from the corrosive effects of the vinegar or perfume.
The period inscription on the cartouche reads H.A Groves to A. Ibbotsen.
Size-1.5 inches long by 1 inch wide by 3/8 inches high.
Weight-25 grams.
In very good condition, this is a lovely object for the collector of small or novelty silver, and a wonderful historical memento.
Please click on my personal website link in the top left column of this page, or go to www.serpentineantiques.co.uk to see additional items not listed on this site. If you would like additional photos, I am happy to provide them.
Inventory is located in different locations, so please email to verify availability. Thank you.
Internal Ref: 6096
Dimensions
Height = 0.95 cm (1")
Width = 3.8 cm (2")
Depth = 2.5 cm (1")
Birmingham 1831 William IV period solid silver vinaigrette by well known maker Thomas Shaw.
Price
SOLD
Item Ref
6096
Description
Birmingham 1831 solid silver vinaigrette with engraved exterior by well known maker Thomas Shaw, maker of vinaigrettes and snuff boxes. This is a very nice early William IV period example.
A vinaigrette is a small box that would be used by both men and women, and would contain a small bit of sponge, placed under the pierced grill, which would be soaked in perfume, aromatic vinegar, or smelling salts. The purpose of this was to cope with the bad smells of the time, when sanitation and personal hygiene were not up to par. One would lift the lid and take a sniff, which would temporarily bring some relief. The well to do carried solid silver vinaigrettes, which would fit easily into handbags or pockets. Sometimes they were also included in large fitted complete travelling sets, with other vanity items.
The hinged lid of the vinaigrette opens to reveal the original gilding, and a beautifully cast and pierced hinged grill in the style that Shaw is known for, having a central flower and fine scrolled detail. The gilding protects the silver from the corrosive effects of the vinegar or perfume.
The period inscription on the cartouche reads H.A Groves to A. Ibbotsen.
Size-1.5 inches long by 1 inch wide by 3/8 inches high.
Weight-25 grams.
In very good condition, this is a lovely object for the collector of small or novelty silver, and a wonderful historical memento.
Please click on my personal website link in the top left column of this page, or go to www.serpentineantiques.co.uk to see additional items not listed on this site. If you would like additional photos, I am happy to provide them.
Inventory is located in different locations, so please email to verify availability. Thank you.
Internal Ref: 6096
Dimensions
Height = 0.95 cm (1")
Width = 3.8 cm (2")
Depth = 2.5 cm (1")
This item is SOLD and is no longer available to purchase.