Vinaigrettes were popular personal accessories throughout the Georgian and Victorian periods. Originally intended to contain a small sponge moistened with aromatic vinegar, they offered their owners a convenient and discreet way to enjoy a refreshing scent.

By the early Victorian period, Birmingham had become an important centre for the manufacture of fine silver vinaigrettes, with skilled makers producing examples that combined practical use with elaborate decorative workmanship.

Hallmarks and Maker

The case bears Birmingham assay marks and an E.S. maker’s mark, consistent with Edward Smith, a Birmingham silversmith known for his silver vinaigrettes and other small decorative silverware.

The worn date letter appears consistent with the Birmingham assay year 1842–1843, although the exact date cannot be established with complete certainty from the surviving impression.

Dimensions and Details

• Period: Early Victorian, circa 1842
• Maker: Attributed to Edward Smith
• Origin: Birmingham, England
• Metal: Solid sterling silver
• Decoration: Engine-turned engraving with floral and scrollwork borders
• Engraving: “Marie”
• Interior: Gilded, with decorative pierced silver grille
• Dimensions: Approximately 40 mm long × 25 mm wide × 10 mm deep
• Weight: Approximately 21 grams
• Condition: Excellent antique condition, with gentle age-related wear consistent with its considerable age

A delightful example of early Victorian silversmithing, retaining the charm, character and fine decorative detail that make these small antique silver pieces so appealing.

The beautifully engraved name adds another layer of interest, making this vinaigrette particularly special for a collector or perhaps as a unique and thoughtful gift for someone named Marie.

A lovely piece of Victorian history, ready to be treasured and admired.

Please be aware that we use a macro close lens for our photographs which gives very highly detailed images but can tend to magnify even the tiniest scratch or mark that most likely will not even be seen with the naked eye !

As with all our items, we offer a no quibble money back guarantee (with return postage included if any do not match our description)
Please note: If delivery is to be outside of the UK you are responsible for any tax or duty payable to your country’s government. ** US customers: If we are certain your item is over 100 years in age there should be no US import tariff to pay and none will be collected by us at checkout but if US customs do decide to charge fees on entry to the US it will be your responsibility to pay those fees if US customs email or sms you.**