Antique Gold Vinaigrette

Object Description

A lovely little novelty collector’s item. An early 19th century gold vinaigrette modelled as a travelling case. Excellent quality and fine detail. The hinged cover, with a carrying handle, is inscribed ‘Souvenir’. The cover opens to reveal a pierced hinged grille. 2 coloured gold, the body is a rich yellow gold and the flower highlights and body fluting are in rose gold.

Weight 4.7grams.
Approx. measurements – height 2cm (handle extended), length 1.8cm, width 1.5cm.
Circa 1820.
2 coloured gold.
Continental, probably French.
19th century.

Marks. Stamped with a Dutch import mark for 1814-1831 on the cover, body and grille. The marks are difficult to read.

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Object Literature

Vinaigrettes, popular from the late 18th century through the end of the 19th century, were small containers used for holding various aromatic substances, usually dissolved in vinegar. A tiny piece of sponge, soaked in the liquid, was contained beneath a grill or perforated cover. Ladies used to carry a vinaigrette with them to combat the aroma from the waste products common in cities. Likewise, the practice of wearing tight corsets also regularly caused a woman to faint, requiring the need to carry smelling salts.

Object Condition

The little box is in good condition with crisp detail. The hinges are good and cover and hinge close flush. Shows moderate signs of wear consistent with age. There is a split in the side of the foot (see image).

Object Details