George III Sterling Silver Vinaigrette – Matthew Linwood, Birmingham 1810 – Gilt Interior, “A” Monogram

Condition: Antique, excellent condition for age

Maker: Matthew Linwood (ML)

Assay Office: Birmingham, England

Date Letter: “m” for 1810

Reign: King George III

Material: Solid sterling silver (hallmarked)

Weight: 11.54 grams

Dimensions: 1.25” x .75” x .3” (approximately)

Interior: Original gilt wash with pierced hinged grille

Monogram: Script “A” engraved on lid

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Description

This exquisite Georgian silver vinaigrette was crafted by Matthew Linwood, one of Birmingham’s most respected early-19th-century silversmiths.

Dated 1810, during the reign of King George III, it features Linwood’s trademark precision engine-turned decoration and a centered script “A” monogram framed by bright-cut borders.

The hinged lid opens smoothly to reveal its original gold-washed interior and an intricately pierced and engraved grille, still retaining the original sponge — a rare survival after more than two centuries. Every hallmark inside (lion passant, anchor, duty mark, and Linwood’s “ML”) is clearly struck and authentic to the period.

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🕰️ History & Significance

Vinaigrettes were fashionable personal accessories in the Georgian era, designed to hold a scented sponge soaked in aromatic vinegar to revive or refresh the user. Linwood’s examples are among the finest produced in Birmingham, celebrated for their elegance and delicacy. Authentic, fully marked specimens like this are sought after by collectors of antique silver and Georgian smallwork.

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✅ Condition

• Hinges tight and lid closes properly

• Original gilding still present inside

• Pierced grille intact and well-fitted

• Minor age patina consistent with antique silver

• Crisp hallmarks and engraving