Work of the mid-19th century - Lot 21

Work of the mid-19th century Yellow gold 750‰ vinaigrette ring known as a "Flacon de bal" in the form of a cassolette with an amati bottom featuring rich floral and foliate guilloché and polychrome enamel decoration. The vinaigrette, fitted with a hinged lid, is set with two round faceted rubies, and opens onto a circular hinged grille chased to day with scroll motifs. It is linked to a ring by a bifurcated chain with enameled oblong links alternating with grooved forçat link portions. Length: 15.5cm. Diameter: 2cm. Finger size : 56. Gross weight: 17.4g. (Missing enamel). Vinaigrettes were key items in the panoply of the 18th- and 19th-century woman of taste. Taking their name from the vinegars used to mask bad smells and protect against disease, they were soaked in sponges kept under a grid in boxes, often adorned with chased and enameled decorations. From utilitarian objects, they became objects of adornment, worn as necklaces, chatelaine charms or even rings, like the model shown here. A cassolette-vinaigrette ring very similar to this one is kept at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, Paris (inventory number: 40894). Bibliography: Bijoux romantiques 1820-1850, La parure à l'époque de Georges Sand, Musée de la VIe romantique, Paris Musées, 2000.