A large and unusual George III sterling silver vinaigrette, Birmingham 1805 by Samuel Pemberton

Of rectangular form with rounded corners, the hinged lid engraved with various astrological symbols and beasts, possibly masonic, all against a striated and stippled ground. The reverse with a plain centre and Greek Key border. Gilt interior with a hinged and pierced grill of leaves flanking a flower. Fully marked to both base and lid, the grill unmarked.

Length – 4.8 cm / 1.9 inches

Weight – 35 grams / 1.13 ozt