One has seen them in movies wandering around with their beak-like hoods - the medieval doctors with their gas masks. There was supposed to be a whole science behind it. Called the Miasma Theory, it basically boiled down to the idea that many diseases could be avoided if one managed to combat bad air. And perhaps it is these very thoughts that underlie the popularity of scent boxes. Or, if you prefer, vinaigrettes. These small containers, made of so-called wrought iron, could be filled with perfumes, smelling salts, or perhaps vinegar. They soon began to be made in silver, adorned with exquisite craftsmanship designed to arouse desire among collectors who appreciate fine quality.
At Stockholms Auktionsverk Magasin, we have 22 examples of this art that has occupied silversmiths' time and care for centuries. The highlight is a piece in gilded silver by Ditlev Petersen, dated 1800. Also, don't miss Hans Christensen's silver box with colored glass pieces or Jesper Henrichsen Lund's elegant piece with a crowning bird.
