Cornelius Saunders & Francis Shepherd silver vinaigrette
Antique Cornelius Saunders & Francis Shepherd silver vinaigrette with gilded interior.
Made in England, Birmingham, 1896
Fully hallmarked.
Vinaigrette is of hinged rectangular form, floral motif decoration, the gilded interior with foliate pierced grill.
Dimensions:
Length x width x height: 5.7 x 3.8 x 1.3 c
Weight: 51 grams
HISTORY:
The history of Silver Vinaigrettes Silver vinaigrettes are small containers, usually in the form of a box or a bottle, used for holding smelling salts or perfumes. These were popular during the Georgian and Victorian eras, from 1714 to 1901, as a means of masking unpleasant odours and providing a pleasant fragrance.
The containers were made of silver, a precious metal that was believed to have antimicrobial properties. The lids of the vinaigrettes often had perforations, through which the fragrance could be released. Some were intricately decorated with engravings, filigree work, or enamel and were seen as a symbol of wealth and status.
Silver vinaigrettes were commonly used by both men and women, and were carried in pockets or purses. They were also given as gifts for special occasions, such as weddings or birthdays. The trend for silver vinaigrettes declined in the early 20th century, with the advent of synthetic fragrances and more affordable alternatives made from other materials.
Today, silver vinaigrettes are highly sought after by collectors and are considered valuable antiques. They are appreciated for their craftsmanship, historical significance, and aesthetic beauty. Many museums, including the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, have collections of silver vinaigrettes that showcase the variety and diversity of these fascinating objects.
Cornelius Saunders & Francis Shepherd company history
Cornelius Saunders and Francis Shepherd were prominent silversmiths active in London during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Saunders and Shepherd were known for their high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, and their work is considered some of the finest examples of Georgian silver.
ITEM LOCATION : United Kingdom
SHIPPING FEE: Complimentary Express & Insured Shipping
INCLUDED: Complimentary Gift Wrap Packaging & Certificate of Evaluation.
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Together, Saunders and Shepherd produced a wide range of silver items, including teapots, candelabra, salt cellars, vinaigrettes, and more. Their work was highly regarded and was in great demand, both in Britain and abroad.
Today, the work of Cornelius Saunders and Francis Shepherd is highly prized by collectors and antique dealers.
