Egg-shaped Vinaigrette, 1789

Egg-shaped nutmeg graters from the 1780's are relatively common, however this is a particularly early period for the pocket vinaigrette and therefore few examples of this form survive. Samuel Meriton was a specialist box maker and a great exponent of this shape and this vinaigrette bears his "SM" mark, alongside the other hallmarks, to the inside of the cover.

The exterior of this pretty, Georgian vinaigrette is attractively decorated with striped engravings, whilst the inside is gilt and the hinged grill is beautifully engraved and pierced with the centre displaying two interwoven flowers. Combining both rarity and charm, this is a fabulous antique vinaigrette that remains in excellent condition.