Of traditional oblong shape and hinged across the narrower end above Nelson's head. The lid engraved with a portrait of Admiral Lord Nelson facing slightly to his right and in full naval uniform, all surrounded by an oval band inscribed "England Expects Every Man Will Do his Duty". The gilt interior with stamped grille depicting H.M.S Victory in full sail heading to the left and randomly pierced with small circles to allow a scented sponge (not included) to permeate its scent to the holder. The top stamped "Victory" and the base "Trafalgar Octr 21 1805". The base of the lid with a small thumbpiece and the underside engraved with an oval petalled flower head within 2 pricked lines running around the edge. Fully marked on the lid and base.
A.C Silver, August 2022
Private Collector
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Nelson's name and reputation does not need any explanation. His gallant leadership and final success at Trafalgar lead to a considerable number of celebratory objects being manufactured in a wide variety of materials. Amongst the best and most sought after are the Vinaigrettes, always oblong in shape but varying in size and hinge positions. Matthew Linwood of Birmingham was the most prolific maker of such pieces followed by John Hart and Company. The main difference between the two makers was that Linwood pierced his grilles through the gunports whereas Hart did random piercing amongst the rigging.
A very similar vinaigrette by John Hart and Company is illustrated in John Culme, British Silver Boxes, 1640-1840, The Lion Collection, page 199, number 221.