19th Century Opaline Glass and Silver Dressing Jar

Details

Description

Portuguese opaline glass and silver dressing pot - 19th century. A circular, domed dressing pot or powder box in blue … Read more Portuguese opaline glass and silver dressing pot - 19th century. A circular, domed dressing pot or powder box in blue opaline glass, supported on a white base. The body is hand-decorated with lotus flowers, fruits, and vegetal scrolls in embossed polychrome enamels in shades of pink, white, blue, and yellow. The removable lid is made of profusely embossed silver with neo-Rococo decoration of shells, volutes, floral motifs, and a monogrammed cartouche. The top handle is in the shape of a fantastic animal or stylized dragon. The mark appears to be compatible with the boar's head mark, used in small silverwork. The diamond silversmith's hallmark is too worn for a secure attribution. The boar's head mark is a French mark applied to small silver items from 1838 onwards, generally associated with a minimum fineness close to 800/1000. Thus, the piece is probably French, dating from the second half of the 19th century, possibly between 1860 and 1890.

Probable origin: Portugal. Period: second half of the 19th century. Materials: opal glass, polychrome enamels and silver.

Dimensions: 11 × 8.5 cm. Weight of the silver lid: 60 grams. Total weight: 195 grams. Condition: In good condition. Signs of age and use. No structural fractures. See less