Antique 1844 Sterling Silver Vinaigrette Birmingham by Nathaniel Mills
Description: Antique 1844 Sterling Silver Vinaigrette from Birmingham England. The vinaigrette has Maker's Mark for Nathaniel Mills, one of the most famous silversmith of his time. The piece is relatively larger in size than usual vinaigrettes are. The exterior is machine turned and has outline of cartouche where one would have initials of the owner. The cartouche is blank, thus giving the new owner the chance of putting his own initial on the piece. The back of the piece has bright cut flower design in the center amidst the machine turned motif. The edges of the box are nicely scalloped and highlighted with a groove all along the edge. The piece has a beautiful floral thumb piece, which can be seen in the photos. The inside of the vinaigrette is gold washed and has a hinged grill under which the sponge with the smelling salts would go. The grill is also gold washed and has a beautiful and delicate floral and foliate design. The flowers look to be roses? and are situated in the middle of the four edges of the grill showing only half of the flower amongst the scrolling foliage. Just a great and wonderful antique that very seldom comes by. Please view photos as they are part and parcel of our description.
Date: 1844.
Origin: Birmingham England, in the United Kingdom.
Size: Measures ~1 5/8" by ~1 1/4" and is 3/8" high. The piece weighs about 28.5 grams.
Maker: Nathaniel Mills.
Marks: Marked with a Lion Passant for sterling) N.M. (for Nathaniel Mills) and the Queens head facing left (indicating taxes were paid) on the inside of the lid. Also marked with an Anchor (Birmingham mark), N.M and the date letter V (1844-1845).
Condition: The vinaigrette is in excellent condition with no dings, breaks, or repairs. The inside has minimum wear, if any, commensurate with the piece's age and utilitarian function. You can tell it was cherished by its owners over the years and was kept in great condition. The piece could probably use a good cleaning, which we leave to the new owner. Be that as it may this is a great antique which very seldom comes by in such a good shape. Please see photos for additional condition information.
Distinguishing Characteristics - Most Interesting About The Piece: A beautiful rare antique made by one of the most famous silversmith of Birmingham England, which would make a great addition to any collection. <b>In Closing: </b> Please view photos to appreciate its beauty and condition. This is truly a beautiful and rare antique, which would make a great addition to your collection.
