Fully hallmarked for the year 1847 this superb quality vinaigrette locket pendant made by English silversmiths William & Edward Turnpenny is a fine collector's piece, and an all round exquisite example of Victorian craftsmanship. Vinaigrettes are small boxes, usually silver, used for holding a tiny piece of sponge soaked in aromatic vinegar. Waved under the nose to ward off noxious odours and to revive swooning in overwrought ladies they were popular from the late 18th century through the mid-19th century and this one is a particularly fine example.
Oval in shape with a frilled outline, each side is intricately machine engraved in a rhombus design. The top is monogrammed in the initials of the original owner 'CAI' and the sides are beautifully decorated in scroll work and floral hand-engraving. The top opens to reveal a gold gilded interior and a hinged silver grille which is exquisitely pierced and engraved in a floral & foliate design. We have popped a tiny piece of natural sponge inside ready to soak up your favourite scent should you wish to use her as originally intended. This vinaigrette is finished in large jump ring ready to pair with a silver chain to match her character.
Vinaigrettes reached their peak during the Regency era, by the 1840's they had fell out of popularity being associated with elderly matrons and dowagers! They then became incorporated into other objects like scent bottles, snuff boxes and jewellery. You might still use a vinaigrette, but it was in disguise!
DETAILS:
METAL: sterling silver, gold
HALLMARKS: stamped inside front 'W&ET' (William & Edward Turnpenny), 'lion passant' for sterling, 'Victoria's head', date letter 'Ƶ' for 1846 and 'anchor' for Birmingham. Stamped inside back ''W&ET', 'lion passant' and 'Victoria's head'
MEASUREMENTS: 1-1/2" (3.5cm) tall, 1" (2,5cm) wide, 9.25mm deep. Jump ring 10mm diameter
WEIGHT: 11 grams
DATE: early Victorian, dated 1847
CONDITION: in excellent antique condition with minimal wear, the hallmarks are clear and it closes securely