Vinaigrette box 1834

This vinaigrette box was crafted from silver and gold, around 1827, by the English silversmith John Bettridge. Its small size speaks to the preciousness of the materials. Vinaigrettes like these were popular accessories in the 19th century, used to carry aromatics that masked unpleasant odors. The intricate engine-turning and cast foliate borders indicate sophisticated techniques and skilled labor. The decoration is not merely applied; it's integral to the object's very being. Consider the labor involved in mining, refining, and working these metals. This box wasn't just for smelling salts; it was a display of wealth, made possible by extensive global trade and industrial processes. The distinction between "fine art" and objects like this vinaigrette is artificial. It deserves our attention for the craftsmanship and social context it embodies.