This exquisite and rare antique Georgian sterling silver tiny vinaigrette is in the form of a miniature book and was made by renowned British silversmiths Ledsam & Vale in 1825. A charm-size feminine piece it would have hung from a necklace or bracelet chain and might have even been worn on the hand suspended from a ring.
The vinaigrette is beautifully hand-engraved and chased in a different floral design on each side and it has a vacant cartouche to accommodate an engraved monogram. It opens to reveal a gold gilded interior with a hinged pierced grille behind which is a tiny piece of natural sponge. Vinaigrettes were designed to mask unpleasant smells by soaking the sponge in sweet smelling scent or vinegar so the interiors were gilded to protect them from the acid. Once perfumed the vinaigrette is wafted under the nose to ward off any noxious odours or prevent fainting!
The vinaigrette has a hanging loop at the top and suspends from a 17"/43cm sterling silver fine curb chain so she is ready to wear or give as a gift. Feminine and exceeding pretty this Georgian silver miniature vinaigrette pendant is steeped in social culture and a fine collector's piece!
DETAILS:
MATERIALS: sterling silver, gold
MEASUREMENTS: 3/4"/2cm tall, 5/8"/1.8cm wide, 7.8mm deep, jump ring 6mm diameter
HALLMARKS: stamped inside front cover with the reigning monarchs head (King George), 'L&Co.' for Ledsam Vale & Company and 'lion passant' for sterling. Stamped inside back cover 'anchor' for Birmingham, 'L&Co.' and date letter 'B' for 1825
DATE: Georgian, dated 1825
WEIGHT: 5.5 grams
CONDITION: in very, very good condition with minor surface scratches and light wear in keeping with age but no noted flaws. The engraving is still beautifully crisp and the interior gold gilding is still lovely and bright. The lids are well fitted closing tightly