Georgian Silver Vinaigrette by Thomas Shaw Birmingham 1829

Georgian silver vinaigrette with a beautifully gilded and pierced scrollwork grille with a central flower. Fully hallmarked for Birmingham 1829 and with the makers' mark ‘TS’ for Thomas Shaw. The top cartouche holds the engraved letters ‘AB’ in fine script. It is surrounded by engine-turned ‘sweet william’ flowers and a raised relief floral border, a further matching sprig to the underside. Date & Origin:- Caroline Street, Birmingham, England, 1829. Period of George IV. Documented Examples:- MET museum: https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/207441 Historical Context:- Thomas Shaw was a silversmith located in Caroline Street, Birmingham, who produced a variety of items including vinaigrettes, snuff boxes, and other silver wares. He worked between 1818 and 1845 and registered this ‘TS’ mark in 1822. Thomas Shaw vinaigrettes are known for their detailed work, including an almost diamond-cut effect on the outside and a gilt-finished interior. Some vinaigrettes also feature a machine-engraved cover and base, pierced scroll and flower grille, and cast grip.