Antique Enamel 18K Gold Vinaigrette Pendant

A lady or a gentleman of means would have one of these with them, while travelling through the busy streets of the city. Soap wasn't readily available or affordable, most of the houses, except most affluent did not have bathrooms and sewage systems were not what they are today. Enough said. You needed a vinaigrette. A precious and beautiful one ! Vinaigrette is a box with a pierced compartment for cotton or sponge infused with perfume. These were usually made by mixing fragrant oils and vinegar (vinaigre in French) hence the name of that necessary object. They were made in silver or gold, some plain, others intricately decorated. They are relatively rare, as the use for them diminished over time, so they are mainly collectors pieces nowadays. We do think that this one, being quite deep would make a great, double lidded pill box too. This gorgeous vinaigrette is not hallmarked, it tests 18 karat gold. It is a mid 19th century Continental creation, style wise possibly Swiss or French. It has a beautifully chased floral inner lid with hinge opening and a lovely, finely chased and enamelled top. The enamel has been professionally and beautifully restored in places, matching the original translucent dark cobalt blue and green, perfect now. The shape of it is very graceful, definitely one made for a discerning lady. We had a n 18 karat, matching yellow gold loop added, so she could be worn as a pendant, as many of them originally are. The bottom of the box is concave and unfortunately dented in several places. This is luckily at the back, where it is not seen and reflected in the price of this lovely object. Otherwise, this piece is in very good antique condition. The vinaigrette enamelled top measures 34.2 by 27 mm, the bottom of it is 31.3 by 23.6 mm. Its depth is 8.3 mm and it weighs 11.4 grams. The length with the loop is 40.1 mm. We adore .... this gorgeous object of fabulous beauty, smelling salts anyone ? * Please kindly note that other jewellery in our photos is for your inspiration and not included in this listing * E-764 THIS ITEM SHIPS; FREE TO UK via Next Day Delivery. FREE USPS SHIPPING TO US,CANADA AND EUROPE EXPEDITED SHIPPING TO US,CANADA AND EUROPE VIA FEDEX OR DHL IS $45 AUSTRALIA, NEW ZEALAND, JAPAN AND HONG KONG INCUR AN ADDITIONAL CHARGE OF $120 TO THE ABOVE. Thanks so much for stopping by! We offer very friendly layaway options so please do get in touch if you are interested. All items paid for in full are subject to a full refund if you are not delighted with your purchase. The layaway items are eligible for exchange only, please refer to our Terms of Sale located on our front page, at the bottom right hand corner for full details. Thanks again! E x