Technical Description
A Georgian silver vinaigrette with a beautifully gilded and raised pierced grille, surrounded by a detailed floral relief border. It is fully hallmarked for Birmingham 1828 and with the makers mark ‘IB’ for John Bettridge. The top cartouche holds the engraved letters ‘MDS’ in fine script. It is surrounded by an engine-turned geometric pattern repeated to the sides and underside. There is a detailed floral scroll relief to the opening.
An uncommon maker providing the rare feature of a raised grille.
Date & Origin
Birmingham, England, 1828. Period of George IV.
Condition
Excellent, age-related wear as shown. The hinges are in full working order.
Dimensions
Length & Width: 3.9 cm x 2.7 cm
Height: 1 cm
Documented Examples
MET museum: https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/207434
Historical Context
John Bettridge was a highly prized silversmith based in Birmingham who specialised in making silver boxes, caddy spoons, decanter labels, flatware and very fine vinaigrettes. Some designs, like the raised cast foliate scroll motifs, are rare and unique to Bettridge workshops.
Internal Reference: 2024100906
Antique Number: SA1110858
Dateline of this antique is 1800
Height is 3.9cm (1.5inches)
Width is 0cm (0.0inches)
Depth is 0cm (0.0inches)
Thank you.
Your comment has been sent to Sellingantiques.