This exceptional antique Victorian sterling silver combination vinaigrette / pill box / scent bottle has an oval barrel shaped form.

The body of the vessel is embellished with applied plain broad girdles replicating the details of the bilge and quarter hoops, which provide anchor points for the original link chain.

The piece retains the original hallmarked screw fit cover to the scent bottle, conjoined to one of the aforementioned anchor points with a link chain.

One end of the vessel is fitted with a hallmarked hinged cover, which when opened reveals the vinaigrette with the original hinged grille and gilt interior.

The gilded grille is ornamented with a bright cut engraved and pierced decorated bordered scroll and leaf design.

The hallmarked hinged cover to the opposing end forms a pill box and opens to reveal the original gilt interior; this versatile box could be used for a multitude of functions.

The hinged covers to either end of the box are encircled with further applied plain broad borders to the upper portion.

This antique Victorian scent bottle / pill box / vinaigrette was crafted by the renowned London silversmiths Sampson Mordan II and bears the retailer"s mark "S Mordan & Co, London".

This Victorian scent bottle / pill box / vinaigrette is a superior gauge of silver, exceptional quality and in exceptional condition.

Full hallmarks to the rim of the body, in addition to the part hallmarks to the interior of the vinaigrette/pill box cover and anterior surface of the scent bottle cover are all very clear; the hallmarks are struck deeply due to the superior gauge of silver.

Reflections in photographs may detract from this fine example of Victorian silverware.

Length 5cm/2"

Width 2.3cm/0.9"

Height 4.3cm/1.7"

1.8 troy ounces/54.6g

Date: 1871

Origin: London, England

Maker: Sampson Mordan & Co (Sampson Mordan II)