Silver vinaigrette Birmingham 1849

Silver vinaigrette, rectangular in shape with curvilinear edges and embossed decoration on the lid and base, depicting an intertwining of tendrils. The lid features a shield with the initials 'C A P'. The edge has geometric engravings. Inside, the grille is pierced and engraved with floral motifs. A soldered ring on the short side allows it to be used as a pendant. The vinaigrette bears the silver hallmark: the passant lion for the 925 thousandths fineness, the anchor for the Birmingham Assay Office, the monarch's head for the duty stamp, the date letter 'a' relating to the year 1849, and the silversmith's mark with the initials 'GU'. The vinaigrette is in good condition, except for a minor dent on the back. Vinaigrettes were very small boxes, generally made of gold or silver, containing a second pierced inner lid. Below this, a pad soaked in perfume or salts was placed, which ladies would sniff when feeling faint. Period: 1800 Height: 3.8 cm Width: 2.4 cm Depth: 0.8 cm art. A1496