Swiss Gold and Enamel Musical Vinaigrette

A musical movement distinguishes this wonderful early 19th-century gold vinaigrette box. The vessel is covered in delicate engraving highlighted by blue and white champlevé enamel detailed in a fine floral motif. The button on the front of the box controls the music, and the accompanying original key winds the mechanism. Gentlemen and ladies utilized the vinaigrette to avoid the pungent smells that were commonplace in the streets of 19th-century cities. The vinaigrette contained a wad of cotton or cloth material, soaked in perfume, vinegar or smelling salts, held in place by a pierced lid that allowed the carrier to inhale the aromatic substance instead of the “less pleasant” odors one could encounter throughout the day. 

Circa 1820

1 1/4" wide x 7/8" deep x 3/8" high