French Silver Scent Bottle And Vinaigrette, Circa 1720

An early 18th-century French Silver Scent Bottle and Vinaigrette, circa 1720, in the form of a pilgrim flask, embellished with rural scenes in relief at either side: one of musicians, including a harpist, drummer, and pipe player; the other of an embracing couple with Cupid between them, the remainder of the bottle decorated with strapwork, scrolls, and foliage. The base unscrews to reveal a vinaigrette sponge. The lid has an internal stopper and attaches to the bottle via a screw thread. There is a very small, unidentified hallmark on the base of the bottle. 9.8 cm (3.9 in) high.

Note: The bottle is surprisingly heavy for its size at 88.8g.

Condition: Excellent. No damage. Light tarnish.

References: For a very similar-shaped and decorated bottles, see:
Launert. E. (1987) Perfume and Pomanders. Potterton Books Ltd. Second edition. P.130. Fig 128.
Meininghaus. H, Habrich. C. (1998) Aromata Düfte und edle Flakons aus fünf Jahrhunderten (Five Centuries of Scent and Elegant Flacons). Arnoldsche. P.70. Fig 35.

Provenance: UK private collection.

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