Victorian Natural Lapis Lazuli And Polychrome Enamels Flower Vinaigrette Pendant

Description

Scented memory

Not only rare but highly collectable and romantic is this striking example of Victorian vinaigrette pendant featuring a meaningful message of secret flowers.

Employed by both men and women from 18th through late 19th, the vinaigrette traditionally held a piece of natural sponge soaked in scented vinegars (called vinaigres de toilette).

Vinaigrettes are small container of fancy boxes of a variety of shapes with a perforated internal hinged grid or screen.

Finely made featuring a meaningful hand-enamelled floral bouquet of pansy, buttercup flower, and lilies set on a drop shape of natural lapis lazuli plaque of a deep blue colour creating vibrant and muted hues of details and delicacy.

The hinged lid enables the vinaigrette to be flipped open, to have access for inhalation of its restorative vapors or scented perfumes, once opened reveals a gorgeous internal grid with hand engravings and open work decorations.

Framed by rich rope work decoration, with delicate details of red and white enamel.

Artfully crafted by a master goldsmith during Victorian era in 18 Kt yellow gold.

Very good overall conditions commensurate to use and age, some wear to the enamel as shown through photos.

A real piece of history, witness of many stories.