French Straw Scent Bottle

This French Straw Scent Bottle, crafted in the early 19th century, is a testament to the delicate artistry of its time. Featuring a unique woven straw exterior, it is accentuated with two gold bands, highlighting its elegance and sophistication. The scent bottle boasts a gold hinged top, which opens to reveal an internal glass stopper. This exquisite piece is housed in its original green leather box, lined with cream silk, providing a touch of luxury and care. The scent bottle is marked with a gold discharge mark, the sheep's head, indicating its authenticity and the quality of its 18ct gold components. Originating from France around 1830, this scent bottle is a rare find for collectors and enthusiasts of fine antiques.

Condition Report

The French Straw Scent Bottle is in good condition, showcasing wear that is consistent with its age and historical use. The woven straw exterior remains largely intact, preserving its visual charm. The gold bands and hinged top exhibit minor signs of tarnish, typical of antique gold items. The internal glass stopper is present and functional, although it may show slight clouding due to age. The green leather box maintains its structural integrity, with some expected wear on the leather surface and silk lining. Overall, the condition of this scent bottle is commendable for a piece nearing two centuries old, ensuring its value and appeal for collectors.

Dimensions

Weight: 20gm, Length: 2.5cm, Width: 10cm, Height: 5.5cm.

A Fragrance Keeper of Elegance

The primary purpose of this exquisite scent bottle was to hold and preserve fragrant oils or perfumes, a luxury often indulged in by the affluent during the 19th century. The combination of straw weaving with gold accents not only provides an airtight seal necessary for preserving the scent but also serves as a decorative element, making it a functional yet opulent accessory for personal use. Such scent bottles were often carried as part of a lady's personal effects, reflecting both her taste and social status.

Exemplary Craftsmanship of the Regency Period

This scent bottle is a fine example of Regency design, a style characterised by its elegance and attention to detail. The era is known for its embrace of intricate craftsmanship and luxurious materials, as evidenced by the woven straw exterior and gold embellishments. The Regency period prioritised refinement and sophistication, often drawing inspiration from classical antiquity. This scent bottle reflects these design principles through its harmonious blend of practicality and ornamental beauty, creating an object that is both utilitarian and visually appealing.

Gold and Straw: An Artful Combination

The crafting of this scent bottle likely involved meticulous hand-weaving of straw to form the exterior, a delicate and skilled process that requires considerable expertise. The use of 18ct gold for the bands and hinged top denotes a commitment to quality and luxury. Goldsmiths would have skillfully crafted these components, ensuring a perfect fit and finish. The internal glass stopper was carefully fashioned to maintain the integrity of the stored perfume, highlighting the thoughtful design and craftsmanship that went into creating this piece. The combination of materials showcases the ingenuity and artistic expression prevalent during its time.

Attributed to an Anonymous French Artisan

While the exact maker of this scent bottle remains unknown, the craftsmanship and style point towards a skilled French artisan of the early 19th century. During this period, France was renowned for its luxury goods, with craftsmen producing items that were highly sought after across Europe. The gold discharge mark, a sheep's head, further authenticates its French origin and adherence to the high standards of gold quality. The anonymity of the maker adds a layer of intrigue, inviting collectors to appreciate the artistry and cultural significance embedded within the piece.

Coveted by Collectors of Regency Artefacts

This French Straw Scent Bottle is a coveted item among collectors of Regency-era artefacts, prized for its unique combination of materials and historical significance. Such pieces are valued for their craftsmanship and ability to provide insight into the lifestyle and aesthetics of the period. Collectors are drawn to the tangible connection these items offer to the past, allowing them to own a piece of history. The scent bottle's rarity and condition make it an attractive addition to any collection, appealing to those who appreciate the nuanced artistry and cultural heritage it represents.