Description

A very attractive antique sterling silver vinaigrette in the form of a book with an opening lid. The interior has the original gilding. The finely pierced grill is decorated with birds, flowers and scrolls. Weight 26 grams, just under 1 troy ounce. Measures 4 x 2.8 cms. Height 0.8 cms. London 1835. Maker Rawlings and Summers.

Literature: Vinaigrettes, popular from the late 18th century through the end of the 19th century, were small containers used for holding various aromatic substances, usually dissolved in vinegar. A tiny piece of sponge, soaked in the liquid, was contained beneath a grill or perforated cover. Ladies used to carry a vinaigrette with them to combat the aroma from the waste products common in cities. Likewise, the practice of wearing tight corsets also regularly caused woman to faint, requiring the need to carry smelling salts.

This attractive antique silver vinaigrette is in very good condition with no damage or restoration. The inside lid and base are marked with crisp, clear silver stamps. The grill is unmarked. Please note that this item is not new and will show moderate signs of wear commensurate with age. Reflections in the photograph may detract from the true representation

Maker: Rawlings & Summers

William Summers, London silversmith, free by patrimony 1826 as goldsmith and jeweller. 1st mark entered as goldworker 1826. 2nd mark as smallworker, in partnership with Edward Rawlings, 1829. Six new marks 1840. Livery 1850. Grimwade describes Summers as a maker of good quality snuff boxes, wine labels and other small items. His four sons William, Edward, James Lea and Henry were all free by patrimony between 1858 and 1866.

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