This sterling silver George III vinaigrette was made in Birmingham in 1800 by the maker John Thorpp. It is octagonal in shape and the exterior is engraved with checkered and foliate designs, as well as a monogram. The interior has a scrolling foliate gilt lid in an oval format—an unusual design for a vinaigrette grille.
A vinaigrette is a small portable decorative box that would hold a scent behind a grille. These personalized hinged boxes could fit in your hand or hang comfortably from a chain, and became popular for travel in the Georgian and the Victorian- Regency eras.
Vinaigrettes come in various sizes and shapes, and the grilles inside of each are all unique. Some of the grilles are quite elaborate, with intricate flower and leaf ornamentation, or perhaps with a gold wash, and always punctured for release of the perfume. Behind the grille one would carry a sponge soaked in an aromatic vinegar (hence the name), or a scent of choice that would not only hide any uncomfortable street smells but could also serve as an intimate perfume or a smelling salt to arouse consciousness. Similar to the ancient pomander, pounce box, or the snuff box, these beautiful little objects became part of everyday rituals to enhance the quality of life.
The interior lid has the date mark letter C for 1800, the mark for Birmingham, sterling silver, and the hallmark “IT” for John Thorpp.
The vinaigrette measures 1 1/8” x 13/16” x 7/16” and weighs 12.3 grams.
There is a perfumed sponge inside of the vinaigrette, and though we don’t think it is original to the piece, it still smells good!
