Vinaigrette box
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
In goldsmithing and decorative arts, a vinaigrette (also known as a vinaigrette box) is a small container used to store a sponge or piece of cloth soaked in aromatic substances.[1] The vessel is typically made of brass, silver, or occasionally gold or porcelain, and features a perforated grille beneath the lid to hold the sponge in place while allowing the scent to escape.[1] The vinaigrette played a role similar to bottles of smelling salts used as stimulants to restore consciousness after fainting.[2][3]
History and design
Vinaigrettes were in common use between 1700 and 1850.[1] During this period, they served as a status symbol for women, who carried them in an inner pocket, a small bag, or suspended from a belt or chatelaine.[1] While primarily associated with the Victorian era and the fashion for tightly laced corsets (which often caused fainting spells requiring restorative scents) their popularity extended back to the 18th century.[4]
The interior of silver vinaigrettes was frequently gilded (vermeil) to protect the metal from corrosion caused by the acidic nature of the aromatic liquids used.[1] While vinegar (French: vinaigre) was a common base for these scents, giving the object its name, other aromatics such as rose water were also used to dab onto the face or inhale.[1]
