Vinaigrette box 1835

This small silver box, crafted by American silversmith Gervaise Wheeler in 1835, was likely used to hold vinaigrette, a fragrant mixture of salts and perfumes popular in the 19th century. Its intricate, engraved floral pattern, a hallmark of Wheeler's style, adds a delicate touch to the functional object. The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, NY houses this miniature example of 19th century American decorative arts.