Vinaigrette box 1799

This silver vinaigrette box, crafted by Samuel Pemberton in 1799, is a fine example of early 19th-century American silversmithing. The octagonal box is meticulously engraved with a delicate floral pattern and a monogram, likely representing the original owner. The box's small size, characteristic of this type of container, suggests its intended purpose: to hold a scented smelling salt used to counter the unpleasant odors of the era. The piece is currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, where it serves as a testament to the skill and artistry of early American silversmiths.