Vinaigrette box

In goldsmithing and decorative arts, a vinaigrette is a small container used to store a sponge or piece of cloth soaked in aromatic substances. 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. The vinaigrette played a role similar to bottles of smelling salts used as stimulants to restore consciousness after fainting.

History and design

Vinaigrettes were in common use between 1700 and 1850. 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. While primarily associated with the Victorian era and the fashion for tightly laced corsets their popularity extended back to the 18th century.
The interior of silver vinaigrettes was frequently gilded to protect the metal from corrosion caused by the acidic nature of the aromatic liquids used. While vinegar 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.