Antique Musical Instrument Silver Perfume Bottle

Exquisite workmanship earmarks this silver perfume or scent flask as a true work of art. With hollow construction the bottle is in the shape of a violin (or bass violin) replete with sensuous curves of the body, four requisite strings and tuning pegs and C-curve scroll. At the bottom of the tailpiece is a silver cap with a pull cork.

Superb repoussé work ornament the entire piece with a variety of intricate scenes and images. The back is decorated with two vignettes each enclosed by a framework of baroque scrolls and flourishes. One depicts a pastoral scene of a man and maiden working a field; the other a waterfront port with a fisherman and his catch, a man with feathered hat grasping a caduceus (the staff carried by Mercury as a symbol of peace) and a pair of cherub-like workers.

The front has the backdrop of a town with buildings and houses with spires. A horse canters down the lane as a pair of lovers recline as they drink in their surrounding as they bask in the sun. Ornate details embellish the unusual antique scent flask.

Note: The standard for silver is measured in X parts out of 1000. Sterling silver is 925 parts out of 1000 with 75 parts of alloy (typically copper). Vintage, antique and coin silver is rated 800 to 900 parts. This particular piece is 833 parts silver out of 1000.

Date: Circa 1880.

From a private New York collection of perfumes and perfume accessories we have purchased. More pieces to come including additional figural musical instruments.

+ Measurements, Condition & More