Vinaigrette

Joseph Taylor, the maker of this vinaigrette, had premises in London as well as Birmingham. His trade card describes him as a “Working Gold and Silversmith, Jeweller, Tortoiseshell and Ivory box, Gilt and General Toy Manufacturer.” Other works by this silversmith in The Met’s collection are a snuffbox (1983.575.3) and a caddy spoon (1983.575.97.2.180).



This vinaigrette in the form of a satchel with a simulated fold-over flap bears Taylor’s hallmark and the date letter for 1806. The exterior is densely chased with floral motifs and punched, except for a plain band (simulated clasp) on the “flap’ which could be personalized with the initials or name of the owner.



A vinaigrette was intended to hold a tiny sponge dipped in aromatic vinegar. Its interior Is gilded to protect the silver from oxidation caused by the acidity of the vinegar. A hinged and decoratively pierced inner lid or grille, here engraved with scrolls around a central rosette, kept the sponge in place while its perforations allowed the odor to waft through. A whiff of the vinegar might revive someone from a fainting spell. Such vinaigrettes were worn around the neck, on a chatelaine suspended from the waist, or carried in a pocket.