Vinaigrettes
A vinaigrette was a small box with hinged lid and internal hinged grill containing a piece of natural sponge soaked in a aromatic vinegar, used to counteract unpleasant odors. The earliest known examples date from the 15th century but they are rare in silver before 1780. The vast majority were made in the 19th century and they can be found up to 1900. Most were rectangular but there are many other examples in various forms. They were used regularly and on view in various social situations. So they were often designed to impress. Therefore silversmiths were asked to create more and more impressive designs including cast or engraved scenes of notable landmarks and views. They were also made in various forms such as in the shapes of fish, bells, helmets, beehives, books, hand-bags, nuts, horns, flowers, shells, and barrels etc. Their interiors were gilded to prevent corrosion.
reference note by Bryan Douglas, 2005.