This exquisite antique Victorian sterling silver vinaigrette, crafted in the form of a miniature book, was made in Birmingham in 1846 by the renowned silversmith Edward Smith. Active during the mid-19th century, Smith was celebrated for producing high-quality silver vinaigrettes, snuff boxes and card cases, and his finely crafted pieces remain highly sought after by collectors today.
A refined and distinctly feminine piece, this charming vinaigrette is fitted with a suspension ring to the side, allowing it to be worn as a pendant from a necklace or bracelet chain. The exterior is beautifully hand-engraved and chased, with a different decorative design adorning each cover. One side features an elegant acanthus leaf swag, while the reverse is decorated with a border of daisies surrounding a vacant cartouche, originally intended to accommodate a personalised monogram.
Opening the miniature book reveals a beautifully preserved gold-gilded interior and the original hinged pierced grille, itself finely engraved with an ornate scrolling design. We have placed a tiny piece of natural sponge behind the grille, as originally intended. Vinaigrettes were designed to hold a scented sponge soaked in perfume, aromatic oils or vinegar, while the gold-washed interior protected the silver from the corrosive effects of these liquids.
Surviving vinaigrettes are often found with worn gilding, damaged hinges or missing grilles, making complete examples increasingly difficult to source. Happily, this piece remains remarkably intact, retaining all of the features that made these ingenious little treasures both beautiful and functional.
In an age when city streets were filled with unpleasant odours and sanitation was far removed from modern standards, ladies would discreetly raise their vinaigrette to the nose to enjoy a refreshing scent. As much a symbol of refinement as a practical accessory, the vinaigrette became an essential companion of fashionable Victorian society.
The vinaigrette suspends from a new 18"/45cm sterling silver fine curb chain, ready to wear or present as a thoughtful gift. Delicate, feminine and rich in social history, this enchanting miniature book vinaigrette is far more than a piece of jewellery. It is a tangible survivor from the Victorian age—an intimate personal possession that has travelled through nearly two centuries while retaining its original charm and purpose. Beautifully preserved and increasingly scarce, it offers the rare opportunity to wear a genuine piece of everyday Victorian life around your neck.
THE DETAILS~
MATERIALS: Sterling silver, gold gilding
MEASUREMENTS: 2.5cm x 2cm (1 inch x ¾ inch), 9.18mm deep, jump ring 5.8mm diameter
HALLMARKS: Stamped inside front cover "ES" for Edward Smith (maker), lion passant for sterling silver, Queen Victoria duty mark, Gothic letter "X" for 1846 and Birmingham anchor assay mark. The back cover is stamped with "ES", lion passant and Victoria duty mark.
DATE: Victorian, 1846
WEIGHT: 10.2 grams (vinaigrette only, excluding chain)
CONDITION: In very good antique condition with light wear commensurate with age. The engraving remains wonderfully crisp, the gilding is well preserved, and both covers close securely with a pleasingly tight fit. No significant flaws noted.
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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
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* All gemstones have been tested and verified using a Presidium Gemstone Tester. All measurements and carat weights given are approximations.
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