Sandbanks Antiques has dated this Silver Gilt Antique Vinaigrette to the 19th Century.
The Ultimate Collector’s Specimen: Nathaniel Mills Silver-Gilt Vinaigrette (1833)
This 1833 Birmingham piece is a rare "triple threat" for the serious collector—retaining its original presentation case, its original natural sponge, and featuring a crisp, vacant cartouche.
Master Craftsmanship: Features Mills’ signature deep engine-turned "basket-weave" decoration to the lid and base, framed by a high-relief floral scroll border.
Pristine Interior: The heavy "lemon gold" gilding remains vibrant. The hand-pierced floral grille is in perfect condition, opening to reveal the extremely rare original natural sea sponge.
Vacant Cartouche: The central rectangular plaque has never been engraved, a rarity for a piece of this age, allowing it to remain exactly as it left the workshop 193 years ago.
Original Presentation Case: Housed in its original red Morocco leather and silk-lined case. The leather has a beautiful aged patina, and the hook-and-eye clasp is fully functional.
Technical Specifications:
Maker: Nathaniel Mills (stamped "NM")
Date: 1833 (Date letter "k")
Origin: Birmingham, England
Length: 3.6cm
Weight: 21.3g (Solid, high-gauge silver)
Condition Report: Excellent antique condition. No thinning to the silver, no repairs to the hinges, and the gilding is remarkably preserved. A true "cabinet piece" that has clearly spent its life protected inside its original box.
Sandbanks Antiques has dated this Silver Gilt Antique Vinaigrette to the 19th Century.
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
Museum-Grade Nathaniel Mills Silver-Gilt Vinaigrette (1833) – Red Moroccan Leather Original Case & Sponge
