Box - scented vinegar, perfume - .800 silver - 18th Century Paris

Rare Louis XVI Silver Vinaigrette / Scent Box – Paris, France – Late 18th Century, early 19th

A rare and elegant French silver vinaigrette or scent box dating from the late 18th century.

The oval box is finely hand-engraved with delicate foliage motifs and features a charming engraved heart pierced by an arrow, a traditional symbol of love and affection popular during the Louis XVI period.

The interior retains its original gilt finish (vermeil) and still contains the original absorbent pad, indicating that the piece was intended to hold scented vinegar, perfume, aromatic herbs or smelling salts. Such objects were carried in a pocket or attached to a chatelaine and were both practical and highly decorative personal accessories.

The box is hallmarked with the letter E, which I found to be Paris end 1700 early 1800. So very early. The quality of the engraving, construction and gilded interior are fully consistent with fine French silverwork of the late 18th century.

Dimensions
Height: approx. 2.3 cm
Length: approx. 3.8 cm
Width: approx. 3.0 cm
Weight: approx. 24 g

Condition
Very good antique condition considering its age of more than two centuries. Minor surface wear and small signs of use consistent with age. Original gilded interior preserved. Please carefully examine the photographs as they form part of the description.

A rare collector's item and an attractive example of French Louis XVI silver craftsmanship, combining historical interest, romantic symbolism and refined workmanship.

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