SW15 Collectables

Description

When I saw this, I thought it must be a nutmeg grater, but it's a vinaigrette. There is nothing obvious to suggest the grille is not of the period and original to the case. Personally, I've never seen another like it.

A Georgian silver (not hallmarked) vinaigrette. Well made in the form of a two-part barrel with tight screw-fitting and reeded hoops. The interior (which is not gilded) includes an intricately floral-chased hinged grille to the larger part. There are maker's/sponsors marks to the inside of the bottoms of both parts. 35mm tall, Diameter 25mm at center 17mm at ends.

The marks are not particularly well-struck, and to the inside the case, so difficult to read with a loupe or photograph. I believe them to be the DF mark of George II, London maker David Field, 1743-48. I've seen an identically-cased and marked barrel nutmeg-grater for sale on the internet attributed to him. This would appear to be early for a vinigrette, so it is possible that this is a very good 19th Century conversion. If anybody has a better/different attribution of the maker, I'd appreciate the input.

Very good condition consistent with age and use. Small deformity to one end. Screw fits very tightly. No splits, tears, losses or material deformation to the silver. There is minor surface-scratching consistent with age and use See also photos. The observations above are intended for completeness and transparency. There is nothing material that detracts from aesthetics or function.

I trade in small silver, jewellery and objets d'art. I sell primarily at antiques fairs and in cabinets in Christique Antique Centre in Dorking. I try to find unusual and interesting stock and like to keep turning it over, so I can buy more. Postage and packing are free within the UK - unless explicitly stated otherwise. All fine jewellery will be supplied with a box. If the box/case is described in the text, it will be the one photographed, but may not be if it is not mentioned explicitly. I keep hardly any stock at home, if you want to buy something and need it urgently, I will usually do it the next day, but it may take me some time to respond if you need extra photographs and/or details about the piece that I do not have to hand, as I typically visit the antiques centre just once a week. If you don't see what you're looking for - feel free to send an enquiry via the site. I have only been able to list a portion of my stock.

I will always mention anything that materially affects the aesthetic or function of a piece, but will not attempt to describe what I consider to be normal for age and use. Please use the photographs as well as you can and I’m always happy to answer specific questions.