Description

Possibly of military interest. A rare barrel shaped antique silver vinaigrette with combination scent bottle and pill box. The vinaigrette has a pretty pierced gilt grill. The quality of this piece is exceptional; the scent flask having a screw lid with integral carrying chain, the two boxes retain their original bright gilt interior.

Weight 58 grams, 1.8 troy ounce.
Height 5 cm. Width 5 cm.
London 1870.
Maker “JB”, probably John Brashier.
Sterling silver.
19th century.

Marks. Stamped with clear English silver hallmarks to the vinaigrette box base, lid and base of the pill box and the scent bottle cap.

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.