What is the history behind late 17th-century scent flasks?

During the late seventeenth century, scent flasks were personal vanity items used by European nobility to carry perfumed oils, essences, or aromatic waters. Frequently crafted from precious metals, these compact vessels served both functional hygiene purposes and as status symbols displaying family coats of arms or coronets.

What materials were traditionally used to create antique scent flasks?

High-status scent flasks from the Baroque era were typically constructed from sterling silver or silver gilt, also known as vermeil, which features a thin layer of gold applied over silver. Custom protective cases were commonly crafted from hardened leather, shagreen, or velvet-lined wood.

How do specialists verify authentic 17th-century silver gilt metalwork?

Authenticity is evaluated through period-correct hand-engraving techniques, genuine wear on high points where the gold layer thins over time, and Makers or purity hallmarks where present. Tool marks from hand-chasing and appropriate age-related oxidisation within engraved crevices also indicate original period construction.

How can an antique scent flask be integrated into modern interior design?

Small historic metalwork pieces style exceptionally well inside glass-fronted curio cabinets, atop stacked art books, or arranged on decorative vanity trays. Placing tiny antique objects alongside structured contemporary textures creates an engaging visual contrast in residential spaces.

What is the proper method for cleaning and preserving silver gilt items?

Silver gilt surfaces require delicate care, as abrasive polishes can permanently remove the gold layer. Use a soft, dry microfibre cloth to gently lift dust and avoid liquid chemical cleaners, excess moisture, or direct contact with modern perfumes.

reserved SA1202185

RESERVED

Artisan Antiques

Sellingantiques Verified Since Dec 2020

View Dealers Stock Page

About Us

Artisan antiques based in london, brings to you a global selection of fine antique silverware.

Relevant Links

William and Mary Silver

Antique Vanity Accessories

Id #SA1202185

PDF

SAVE

Antique Silver Gilt Scent Flask/perfume Bottle with Coronet Engraving - C.1690

Name: Antique Silver Gilt Scent Flask/perfume Bottle with Coronet Engraving - C.1690
Brand: Antique
SKU: SA1202185
Price: 2200 GBP
Availability: LimitedAvailability

17th century

For Sale by Artisan Antiques (Reserved for a buyer)

Description

We are delighted to offer this exquisite silver-gilt scent/perfume flask made c.1690, of continental European origin.

The bottle exudes opulence, splendour yet with a timeless classical charm – the exterior being richly gilt (gold on top of solid silver) yet with an understated teardrop form.

Remarkably, the flask’s original exterior case has survived, which is exceptional in itself. The form is solid, elegant, and the push buttons on either end still work to reveal either the full flask or just the tip from which the lid can be unscrewed without exposing the rest of its body.

On one side of the flask, a beautiful hand-engraved armorial is present. We are still in the process of researching the arms; however, it appears that a Marquess’ coronet is present on top of the cartouche.

Overall, a splendid and exemplary piece of late 17th century silver, rich with history, quality and remaining in remarkable condition considering its age. Perfect for the uncompromising collector or as an exquisite gift for someone special.

This piece is unmarked, as was common with small articles of this period (particularly continental origin), and as such we have tested it for silver.

*Please note: all images with other items are for display purposes only, this listing is for the title item only.

Size

Size (cm) H:9cm W:3.5cm D:0.9cm

Size (inches) H:3.54 W:1.37 D:0.35

Weight: 22 grams (0.70 Troy oz)

Condition

Excellent Condition - The bottle is in great antique condition, especially considering its age, without any major issues/damage. Some minor surface scratches and wear commensurate with age. A small ding on the bottom curvature of the flask. Otherwise in good order.

We aim to overemphasise and state these issues to avoid disappointment and thus please rest assured they are not significant nor affect the usage of the items.

Please refer to the photographs to examine the condition in further detail.

Free Shipping

Artisan Antiques offers free global shipping with professional, secure and discreet packaging.

We will always ensure your items are packaged with the utmost care and see the delivery through to the end. In the very rare and unfortunate case of non-delivery/courier loss, you are fully covered with us and we will fully refund you.

*All parcels are insured - please rest assured all shipping liabilities other than import/customs duty are covered by Artisan Antiques.

*Colours of the product may slightly differ from the photos due to different computer screens & lighting conditions*

- Price negotiations may be possible under certain criteria, please contact us via telephone (07578761640) or email (info@artisanantiques.net) -

Declaration

Artisan Antiques has dated this Antique Silver Gilt Scent Flask to the 17th Century.

Reference Numbers

Sellingantiques Reference

SA1202185

Dealers Notes

We strive to provide inimitable first-class service with your needs and satisfaction as our number one priority.

Description

We are delighted to offer this exquisite silver-gilt scent/perfume flask made c.1690, of continental European origin.

“

The bottle exudes opulence, splendour yet with a timeless classical charm – the exterior being richly gilt (gold on top of solid silver) yet with an understated teardrop form.

Artisan Antiques

fig 1. A seventeenth-century teardrop-shaped silver gilt scent flask engraved with a coronet and crest, positioned alongside its dark leather case. — fig 1. Antique Silver Gilt Scent Flask/perfume Bottle with Coronet Engraving - C.1690

Remarkably, the flask’s original exterior case has survived, which is exceptional in itself. The form is solid, elegant, and the push buttons on either end still work to reveal either the full flask or just the tip from which the lid can be unscrewed without exposing the rest of its body.

fig 2. A seventeenth-century teardrop-shaped silver gilt scent flask engraved with a coronet and crest, positioned alongside its dark leather case. — fig 2. Antique Silver Gilt Scent Flask/perfume Bottle with Coronet Engraving - C.1690

On one side of the flask, a beautiful hand-engraved armorial is present. We are still in the process of researching the arms; however, it appears that a Marquess’ coronet is present on top of the cartouche.

fig 3. A seventeenth-century teardrop-shaped silver gilt scent flask engraved with a coronet and crest, positioned alongside its dark leather case. — fig 3. Antique Silver Gilt Scent Flask/perfume Bottle with Coronet Engraving - C.1690

Overall, a splendid and exemplary piece of late 17th century silver, rich with history, quality and remaining in remarkable condition considering its age. Perfect for the uncompromising collector or as an exquisite gift for someone special.

fig 4. A seventeenth-century teardrop-shaped silver gilt scent flask engraved with a coronet and crest, positioned alongside its dark leather case. — fig 4. Antique Silver Gilt Scent Flask/perfume Bottle with Coronet Engraving - C.1690

This piece is unmarked, as was common with small articles of this period (particularly continental origin), and as such we have tested it for silver.

Please note: all images with other items are for display purposes only, this listing is for the title item only.

fig 5. A seventeenth-century teardrop-shaped silver gilt scent flask engraved with a coronet and crest, positioned alongside its dark leather case. — fig 5. Antique Silver Gilt Scent Flask/perfume Bottle with Coronet Engraving - C.1690

Size

Size (cm) H:9cm W:3.5cm D:0.9cm

Size (inches) H:3.54 W:1.37 D:0.35

Weight: 22 grams (0.70 Troy oz)

Condition

Excellent Condition - The bottle is in great antique condition, especially considering its age, without any major issues/damage. Some minor surface scratches and wear commensurate with age. A small ding on the bottom curvature of the flask. Otherwise in good order.

fig 6. A seventeenth-century teardrop-shaped silver gilt scent flask engraved with a coronet and crest, positioned alongside its dark leather case. — fig 6. Antique Silver Gilt Scent Flask/perfume Bottle with Coronet Engraving - C.1690

We aim to overemphasise and state these issues to avoid disappointment and thus please rest assured they are not significant nor affect the usage of the items.

Please refer to the photographs to examine the condition in further detail.

fig 7. A seventeenth-century teardrop-shaped silver gilt scent flask engraved with a coronet and crest, positioned alongside its dark leather case. — fig 7. Antique Silver Gilt Scent Flask/perfume Bottle with Coronet Engraving - C.1690

Free Shipping

Artisan Antiques offers free global shipping with professional, secure and discreet packaging.

We will always ensure your items are packaged with the utmost care and see the delivery through to the end. In the very rare and unfortunate case of non-delivery/courier loss, you are fully covered with us and we will fully refund you.