Vinaigrette
The maker of this vinaigrette, William Pugh, was a prolific maker of small wares, including caddy spoons, snuff boxes and cutlery. The hinged lid of this unusual vinaigrette is set with polished agate; the base is engraved with a panel of basket-weaving.
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 flowers and luxuriant foliage, 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.
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 flowers and luxuriant foliage, 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.
Artwork Details
- Title: Vinaigrette
- Maker: William Pugh
- Date: 1811
- Culture: British, Birmingham
- Medium: Silver, agate
- Dimensions: Length: 1 in. (2.5 cm)
- Classification: Metalwork-Silver In Combination
- Credit Line: Gift of Herbert K. Reis, in memory of Rose-Frances K. Reis (Mrs. Ralph A. Reis), 1983
- Object Number: 1983.575.56
- Curatorial Department: European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
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