Victorian Era Book Vinaigrette

Victorian Era Silver Vinaigrette 

Birmingham, England, circa 1833. 

A charming 19th-century object crafted in the form of a miniature book by Taylor & Perry. The exterior features a finely-engraved cover, lifelike engraved page edges, and a ribbed spine. Inside, a delicately pierced floral grille, beautifully gilded, protects the compartment within. Vinaigrettes like this held a small piece of perfumed fabric, offering a discreet way to counter the often-unpleasant odors of the era, when city streets were crowded with horses and modern plumbing was still in its infancy.

Halmarks indicate maker and year of manufacture. 

Measures 1.50 inches by 1 inch.