1832 Nathaniel Mills Sterling Silver Vinaigrette Birmingham England Flower Grill
Description: Antique 1832 Sterling Silver Vinaigrette from Birmingham England. This Georgian vinaigrette has the Maker's Mark for Nathaniel Mills, one of the most famous silversmiths of his time. The piece is small size and its exterior is decorated with a repeating pattern of small geometric shapes. The top of the vinaigrette is monogrammed with two initials is script calligraphy, which appears to be SC. The piece has a hinged lid with the front of the lid having a thumb piece. The inside of the vinaigrette was gold washed but has lost quite a bit of the color over time. It has a hinged grill under which the sponge with the smelling salts would go. The grill was also gold washed but also has lost quite a bit of the coloring. The grill which is hinged on the right side and has a beautiful central flower with a delicate filigree surrounding it. Just a great and wonderful antique that very seldom comes by. It is in very good condition after being around for almost 200 years. Please view the photos presented as they are part and parcel of our description.
Date: 1832-1833.
Origin: Birmingham England, in the United Kingdom.
Size: Measures ~1 1/4" by ~7/8 " and is 3/8" high. The piece weighs about 18 grams.
Maker: Nathaniel Mills.
Marks: Marked with a Lion Passant (for sterling) N.M within a rectangular (for Nathaniel Mills) and the King's head facing right (indicating taxes were paid) on the inside of the lid. Also marked with an Anchor (Birmingham mark), N.M and the date letter J in very decorative calligraphy within a shield shape (1832-1833).
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.
Condition: The vinaigrette is in very good condition with no breaks, or repairs. The inside shows signs of wear and has lost quite a bit of its original gold wash. The hinges for both the lid and the grill are intact and work well. The exterior of the vinaigrette is a bit banged in but is still intact and not truly objectionable. The lid closes well but does not latch tightly when closed and comes open easily. The design on the exterior of the piece shows considerable wear and some spots do not show the design distinctly. The exterior has some scratches and dings as mentioned earlier. The top of the lid is monogrammed. Because of the issues mentioned here we are selling this antique as is at a fraction of its true value. Be that as it may this is a great antique made by a top silversmith (Nathaniel Mills) from Birmingham England, which very seldom comes by. Please see photos for additional condition information.
