Serpentine Antiques has dated this piece to the 1890s.
There is also a vacant cartouche on both sides for personalisation if desired.
Made by Henry Matthews, famous maker of such items, and bears his maker's mark.
This unusual piece was meant to hold and protect a scent or smelling salts glass bottle (not included).
The tightly hinged top snaps open with the catch, and then the main body of the case, also securely fastened and hinged, opens flat to totally remove the contents if desired.
The interior of the case retains the original gilding, which would have protected the silver from corrosion. It appears to have had very little use in its life.
Size-3.25 inches high by 2 3/8 inches diameter by 1 5/8 inches deep.
Weight-50 grams.
With very clear hallmarks as well as the mark 29, which was likely for the complementary bottle size.
With one very hard to find tiny pin sized over polish hole to pattern near hinge, this is in very good condition overall.
A wonderful and seldom found impressive piece with very good size, for the collector of novelty silver or scent bottles.
Serpentine Antiques has dated this piece to the 1890s.
Specialising in unique pieces for the discerning individual, selected and prepared with special care..
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Serpentine Antiques Profile Page
Birmingham 1899 Very Unusual Solid Silver Scent Bottle Flask Case by Henry Matthews.
