Antique Art Nouveau Alvin Sterling Silver Overlay Clear Glass Perfume Bottle

  
This lovely antique perfume/scent bottle, likely made in the latter part of the 19th Century or very early in the 20th, features an Art Nouveau floral motif in Fine Silver (purer than Sterling) overlay on a clear glass bottle. It is marked 999/1000 Fine with the Alvin shop mark and the number 3107. In 1886 Alvin patented a process for depositing pure silver on a surface such as a glass bottle. Once so coated, a part of the silver overlay was cut away, exposing the bottle beneath through the pierced silver work. Using this technique, Alvin was able to create very delicate and elaborate silver designs such as that you see here.

The bottle's sinuous floral pattern features a. Cartouche which bears the 3 letter monogram E. The piece is in very good antique condition. Light scratching is present in the silver on the rim of the bottle and the bottom of the glass stopper has a small chip in the glass.

The most notable issues are with the glass bottle itself. There are several cracks in the interior at the top of the neck. These can be felt on the inside but none are jagged or sharp. On the outside the cracks are both covered and kept in place by the Silver overlay. There is also an internal crack in the body of the piece (near the cartouche) which is smooth to the touch both inside and out.

The bottle still holds liquid without leaking, so its function has not been compromised. The cracks, which are consistent with age and use, do not detract from the aesthetics of the piece. This elegant antique scent bottle would add a touch of grace and sophistication to your dressing area.