Rare Georgian 18ct Solid Gold Vinaigrette

Luxurious, wearable, storied and tactile: hold on to your horses guys and gals, this vinaigrette has it all.

This piece showcases classic Georgian gold working techniques: repoussé to the frame and jump ring, engine turning to the opening compartments and open gold-work to the interior grille.

Vinaigrettes were perhaps the most sophisticated way to spare oneself from the odours of London in the early 1800's. The compartment behind the grille would have held a vinegar or perfume soaked sponge. Rather excitingly, a whiff of the interior of this particular example will reveal a trace of the old perfume it once held, confirming its prior adventures.

In line with its history, the vinaigrette does have some minor dings to the exterior, visible in the photographs. This does not affect the opening and closing mechanisms, which still yield their satisfying 'click'.

Material: 18ct yellow gold, solid

Dimensions: height 42mm; diameter 27mm

Weight: 12.2g

Hallmarks: None, tested to at least 18ct gold.