1816 George III London William Eaton sterling suitcase vinaigrette scent box

Description:
One 1816 George III London William Eaton sterling pocket vinaigrette.
Markings:
Assay office
: Lion face (London)
Content mark:
Lion
Reign mark:
George
Date mark:
“a” (1816)
Maker’s mark:
“WE?” in rectangle. The second letter is partially erased. I guess it is “E”.
This vinaigrette features diagonal woven pattern like a wicker suitcase on the exterior. Inside, the grille is embellished with hand chased and pierced flower design. Deep chamber for the once soaked sponge. Marked on the bottom. All marks are clear except the second letter of the maker’s mark is partially erased. The grille’s hinge is not soldered down on one side(see picture 9,11). The box’s hinge is loose on one side(see picture 10). Despite those conditions, the box can close properly and miraculously without any dents on the exterior.
This vinaigrette came from a large collection of antique vinaigrettes and nutmeg graters I found in a local estate sale. The owner kindly presented prior receipts, from which I learnt that the collection was acquired from various jewelers and antique dealers in the last 25 years.
Measurement:
Measured in metrics (mm) :
26x20x11
.
Overall weight: 12 grams.
Please see picture for the relative size comparing with a penny
.
Condition:
Pre owned antique collectables. See description section for details. Sold as it is found. Please ask any question you may have before bidding
Shipping:
Will be packed carefully. I won’t ship to P.O box, please provide street address for shipping.