A rare and beautifully preserved Georgian sterling silver vinaigrette, dated 1818, crafted in the charming and unusual form of a miniature cigar case.
This early example captures a fascinating moment in English social history — a time when cigars were still a novelty and the elite favoured snuff. Its uncommon form sets it apart from typical vinaigrettes and adds real collector interest.
Elegantly proportioned and originally intended to be worn, this piece holds strong appeal today as both a pendant and a highly collectible object. (Chain not included.)
The exterior is finely hand-engraved with a flowing floral design, still crisp under close inspection. Inside, a delicately pierced hinged grille in a daisy motif sits above a richly gold-gilded compartment, both decorative and entirely functional.
Vinaigrettes were designed to hold a small sponge soaked in aromatic vinegar or oils, used to counteract the harsh urban smells of the 18th and 19th centuries. The gilded interior protected the silver from corrosion, a clear mark of quality craftsmanship.
A hanging loop remains in place, ready to wear. Suspended from a chain, it reads beautifully today as a distinctive antique pendant. A small sponge is included should you wish to return it to its original purpose, though its appeal now lies just as much in its effortless wearability.
Popular with both men and women of the Georgian elite, vinaigrettes were gifted as tokens of affection and carried daily — practical, yet quietly sentimental.
A feminine and highly collectible example, with crisp engraving, intact gilding, and an unusually charming novelty form.
THE DETAILS:
METAL: sterling silver, gold
SIZE: 1-1/8" (3cm) tall, 3/4"(2cm) tall, 7mm deep. Jump ring 8mm diameter
HALLMARKS: Inside front: lion passant (sterling), George III duty mark, maker’s mark WK
Inside back: anchor (Birmingham), date letter ‘U’ (1818), maker’s mark WK. Marks worn but legible under magnification
WEIGHT: 9.7 grams
DATE: Georgian, dated 1818
CONDITION: Very good antique condition with light, age-appropriate wear. One of the original side opening “lips” is absent — only noticeable on close inspection and does not affect function or closure. Engraving remains crisp; interior gilding rich and well preserved. Lids align well and close securely. Any warm tones in images are reflections — the piece is bright silver.
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At Mercy Madge we offer quality antique and vintage jewellery sourced in Great Britain. All of our pieces are professionally cleaned and polished so they are ready to wear and enjoy or give as a gift.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
* Free worldwide shipping on all purchases.
* Returns - you can return your item for a refund for any reason. Just get in touch within 3 days of receiving your order and return it within 7 days.
* All gemstones have been tested and verified using a Presidium Gemstone Tester. All measurements and carat weights given are approximations.
* Our photographs have been taken in extreme close up to show you every tiny detail. This often means that any flaws or damage which you can see on the photos will be invisible when viewed normally with the eye. This can also mean that the item can appear larger on the screen than it is in person, so please be sure to read our written description to double check all sizes and dimensions.
* Buying a gift? – your item will arrive gift wrapped in a custom Mercy Madge jewellery box. Please note, unless otherwise stated antique boxes in our photos are for display only and are not included in the purchase.
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Materials: Sterling Silver, Gold.