A Porcelain Novelty Perfume Bottle With Silver Top

This delightful antique piece is a porcelain novelty perfume bottle, crafted to resemble a bird's egg with striking black and tan spots on a cream background. It features a silver top, hallmarked with the marks of Birmingham makers Cornelius Desormeaux Saunders & James Francis Hollings (Frank) Shepherd, dating back to circa 1887. The item's unique design and craftsmanship reflect the artistic intricacies of late 19th-century England.

Condition Report

The condition of this porcelain novelty perfume bottle is very good, displaying wear consistent with its age and prior use. The surface of the porcelain retains its original lustre, with the pattern of spots remaining vivid and clear. The silver top, while showing minor surface scratches typical of a piece of this age, maintains its structural integrity and functionality. Overall, this perfume bottle is a well-preserved example of its type, offering a glimpse into the aesthetic values and material culture of the late 1800s.

Dimensions

Weight: 20gm, Length: 4cm, Width: 4 cm, Height: 4.5cm.

A Decorative Scent Holder

Originally intended as a functional yet decorative piece, this novelty perfume bottle served as a holder for scented oils or perfumes. Such items were often carried by individuals during the Victorian era, providing a convenient method to apply fragrance throughout the day. The design, mimicking a bird's egg, not only highlights the innovative spirit of the period but also signifies the owner's taste and social standing, as unique novelty items were treasured for their rarity and craftsmanship.

Victorian Novelty Design

This perfume bottle is a fine representation of Victorian novelty design, a style that celebrated whimsy and creativity in everyday objects. The choice of a bird's egg motif within the design reflects the Victorian fascination with nature and the natural world. Items such as this were often conversation starters, their unusual forms and artistry sparking interest and admiration in social settings. The incorporation of silver elements further underscores the high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship associated with this period.

Craftsmanship in Porcelain and Silver

The creation of this perfume bottle involved the skilled artistry of porcelain modelling, a technique involving the shaping and firing of delicate clay to achieve the desired form. The addition of a silver top not only adds a touch of refinement but also highlights the collaboration between different crafts. The hallmark of Saunders & Shepherd indicates the use of sterling silver, a standard for quality in English silversmithing. This combination of materials and techniques exemplifies the period's dedication to producing functional yet artistically valuable pieces.

Made by Saunders & Shepherd

Founded in 1869, the partnership of Cornelius Desormeaux Saunders & James Francis Hollings (Frank) Shepherd was renowned for producing high-quality silver items. Their hallmark on this perfume bottle attests to the superior craftsmanship and attention to detail that defined their work. The firm's creations were highly sought after during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, admired for their innovation and design excellence. This perfume bottle is a testament to their legacy, embodying the aesthetic and practical qualities that made their pieces desirable among collectors and connoisseurs alike.

Collected by Enthusiasts of Unique Victorian Pieces

Antiques such as this perfume bottle are avidly collected by enthusiasts who appreciate the charm and historical significance of Victorian novelty items. The distinctiveness of the bird's egg design, combined with the hallmark of a reputable maker, increases its allure among collectors. The perfume bottle not only serves as a decorative object but also provides insight into the cultural and social practices of the time. Its preservation and continued appreciation underscore the enduring fascination with Victorian artistry and craftsmanship.