Vinaigrette

John Bettridge specialized in the manufacture of small silver boxes, caddy spoons, decanter labels, flatware, and vinaigrettes. Two silver hallmarks are known for John Bettridge which were in use from 1817–1834. The Met’s collection includes two further vinaigrettes by John Betteridge (1983.575.13 and 1983.575.27) as well as a caddy spoon (13.42.68).



The base, sides, and lid of this vinaigrette are engraved with basket-weaving; the reserve on the lid is left blank.



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 formed of foliate scrolls, 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.