Antique Georgian Sterling Silver Vinaigrette Scotland (Pre-1810)

Antique Georgian Sterling Silver Vinaigrette, Attributed to Scotland, Pre-1810

Someone’s name is still visible in the cartouche, framed by engraved leaves and fine dotted borders. The box has reeded sides and opens to reveal a gilt interior with a second, hinged grille.

A small sponge soaked in aromatic vinegar would have sat beneath the grille, which held it in place while letting the scent through.

Specifications

• Metal — Sterling silver with a gilt interior

• Period and origin — Georgian, attributed to Scotland, before 1810

• Design — Rectangular case with reeded sides, an engraved cartouche and a hinged, pierced inner grille

• Dimensions — Approximately 32 × 24 mm

• Weight — 20.2 g

• Marks — Stamped marks inside the lid and base

• Condition — Surface scratches, small knocks along the edges and a dark spot on one outer face. Some wear to the interior gilding.

A pocket-sized piece of Georgian silver from the days when even a breath of fragrance had its own little box.