Antique Victorian Chatelaine In Solid Silver, 1872

A unique English sterling silver chatelaine, dating from 1872 and made by Archibald John Douglas. Intended for a high-ranking lady for a ball, these ceremonies were then held in elegant and varied venues.

The chatelaine consists of the following elements:
* The base, fitted with a hook to attach it to the skirt.
** Left chain with a vinegar tin.
*** Central chain with a ball program.
**** Right chain with a silver watch.

Hallmarks:
A. The base bears five silver hallmarks on the reverse. From left to right:
1. Hallmark AD, which designates the English silversmith Archibald John Douglas.
2. Standard mark: the English lion for 925 sterling silver.
3. City mark: the uncrowned leopard for London.
4. Date letter: r for 1872.
5. Hallmark with the effigy of Queen Victoria (1838-1890).

B. The vinegar tin bears the same five hallmarks. Once opened, four hallmarks are visible on the front, with the letters AD on the right.

C. The dance book also displays the same hallmarks, distributed across its two flat faces. The maker's mark is present on both sides. It is noteworthy that the piece connecting the chain to the dance book also bears three hallmarks.

D. The chain on the right secures the silver watch in its clasp. This hallmarked silver watch comes from a French watchmaker, not Archibald John Douglas, which makes sense. It is hallmarked with a lozenge containing the letters GC and a glass (?), the number 17559, and the Minerva hallmark for 950/1000 silver.

Condition: The set is in good antique and used condition. The French clock is probably not working, but the interior is exceptionally beautiful. The vinegraitte box once had a second lid, which is sadly missing.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions.

Thank you for your visit. Sincerely, Ben