Antique Travel Sterling & Glass Bottle Set in Leather Case

An exciting find at market in France this fall, this stunning case with its Antique Travel Sterling & Glass Bottle Set is resplendent with Victorian details. Opening the rich, vicuna-hued leather travel case reveals precious cargo: a trio of darling glass bottles.

Part of a long and fashionable history, intricate and exquisite bespoke travel cases have deep origins dating back to the late 14th century. The French Nécessaire de Voyage or Travelling Case evolved over the centuries from a set of purely useful travel necessities into decorative and valuable coffrets of luxury accessories produced by expert Ébénistes (cabinetmakers) and Orfèvres (goldsmiths/ silversmiths). Until the late 18th century, these exquisite vessels were most often the property of royalty, noblemen and holders of wealth. One of the earliest 19th-century symbols of travel status and caché, gentleman’s dressing cases would contain bottles and jars for colognes, aftershaves and creams as well as utilitarian shaving and manicure tools.

As travel became more widely accessible, its popularity spurred more specialized case variations for toiletries, eating and drinking, sewing, and writing, along with tools and conveniences for a wide range of vocations and pursuits. By the early Victorian era, ladies also began to travel and their requirements were anything but utilitarian! Case in point, this lovely trio of crystal clear perfume bottles nestled gracefully like a sweet posy, each topped by a gleaming lid in brilliantly shining sterling. With a petite band articulating a classic ribbon and reed motif encircling each diminutive sterling lid, the tiny stoppers include a faded makers mark alongside Sterling Silver and .925 stamps. Designed for use as part of a portable dressing set, these triangularly shaped glass containers would have held an assortment of the traveler's preferred scents and potions. 

With a graceful elegance that promises to infuse your dressing table or vanity with the adventurous spirit of the Golden Age of Travel, this magnificent case with its soft patina seems to glow from within. Ready to embark upon new voyages to distant horizons, it is sure to become a vibrant and stored addition to your collection.

Strictly one-of-a-kind and subject to prior sale. Case measures 5.5"H x 4" in diameter.  Bottles measure 5"H x 3"W x 1.75"D. In very good condition with signs of age and use to original leather.