Pair of antique perfume bottles with tortoiseshell & sterling silver caps

A pair of antique perfume bottles, the ball-shaped glass bodies cut with vertical flutes, and fitted with silver collars and hinged covers. The covers are inset with tortoiseshell panels, decorated with inlaid bellflower swags and scrolls surrounding a central, circular shield within which is a stylized burst of stamen. Each bottle is fitted with a glass stoppers.

The technique used on these silver covers is called piqué, where gold or silver is inlaid into another material, in this case silver on tortoiseshell. Despite being expensive, the use of tortoiseshell in the decorative arts was very popular in 18th and 19th century Europe. Not only did it have a beautiful mottled appearance and was durable, but it was also lightweight and could be easily fashioned into other shapes; jewelry boxes and tea caddies were prime examples.

In very good antique condition with a few minor flea bites to glass. Made in Birmingham by ES Barnsley & Co 1914. Makers marks present.

Appx. 4” diameter x 5” tall

*all items are in vintage and/or antique condition and may show signs of age-related wear. Any major flaws will be noted in the description.