Sandbanks Antiques has dated this piece to the Victorian era.
By Edward H. Stockwell, London, 1880
Description
The Maker: Crafted by the renowned Victorian silversmith Edward H. Stockwell, who was celebrated for his high-quality "whimsies" and cast novelty items.
The Design: Exquisitely modelled as a naturalistic rose spray, this piece features a fully bloomed rose and a delicate secondary bud on a leafy stem. Unlike standard flat vinaigrettes, this is a three-dimensional "cast" object, giving it a realistic texture and a satisfying weight in the hand.
Functionality & Detail:
The Vinaigrette: One of the petals on the central flower hinges open to reveal a silver-gilt interior and a drill-pierced grille designed to hold a perfume-soaked sponge.
Wearability: The reverse is fitted with an unmarked yellow metal brooch pin and a safety chain attachment, allowing it to be worn as a "tussie-mussie" style fashion accessory.
Condition: Good, The casting remains crisp, showing the fine veins in the leaves and the delicate overlap of the petals.
Hallmarks:
Fully and clearly hallmarked to the stem with:
Maker's Mark: 'EHS' for Edward H. Stockwell.
City Mark: Leopard's Head for London.
Purity Mark: Lion Passant for Sterling Silver.
Date Letter: ‘e’ for 1880.
Duty Mark: Queen Victoria’s profile.
Specifications:
Length: 7.9 cm (3.1 inches)
Weight: 46 grams (1.48 ozt)
Why this piece is special
Edward Stockwell’s floral vinaigrettes (such as his roses, thistles, and carnations) are considered masterpieces of 19th-century silver.
Provenance: Private Collection, London
Sandbanks Antiques has dated this piece to the Victorian era.
Specialising in antique silver, gold boxes, gold coins and objects de vertu. Rare fine-quality imperial chinese porcelain, jades, cloisonné
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Sandbanks Antiques Profile Page
A Rare Victorian Sterling Silver Novelty "Rose Spray" Vinaigrette & Brooch by Edward H. Stockwell, London, 1880
