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Vinaigrettes, or perfume bottles, were popular from the late eighteenth century through the mid-nineteenth century. They were used to hold fragrances, which were sometimes dissolved in vinegar. The semiprecious red stones found in this one come from the Norwegian mountains.

Marks: Bergen city gate over 7 balls (indicating that it was made in Bergen); JK over a w (assayer’s mark of Jens Kahrs); JT (maker’s mark of Jørgen Tempter); 9 over an M (indicating it was made in September)

This vinaigrette was made by Jørgen Temper who was an active goldsmith in Bergen from 1744 to 1749.