This exceptional antique Georgian 22ct yellow gold toothpick holder has an oblong form with rounded ends.
The anterior and posterior surfaces are embellished with impressive pin struck and chased decorated interlacing borders, incorporating bud and floral motifs.
Either end of each surface is embellished with an impressive oval medallion ornamented with an exceptional stylised rosette, with engine-turned elliptical decoration to the background.
The centre of the base is further ornamented with an oval cartouche bearing the contemporary engraved initials 'KH' and the cover replicates the cartouche, featuring the contemporary engraved initials 'AW'
The sides of this impressive antique case are embellished with further wrigglework and pin struck decoration, in addition to the engraved presentation inscription 'the Gift of the Miss Dashwoods on the Death of Mrs Sophia Dashwood, Jany 1827'*.
This antique toothpick holder opens to reveal the original integrated mirror.
This exceptional holder is fitted to the original hinged skin covered presentation box with a red velvet lined interior, securing with a push fit catch.
This impressive case has been hallmarked with the makers mark for Andrew Hogg, the English post-1756 standard mark for gold**, the London assay mark for 1756-1821 and the London date letter for 1779/1780.
The piece has been independently tested using state of the art technology (Niton XL2, Analyzer) and verified as 22ct gold.
* This piece was given by Diana Elizabeth, Sophia and Charlotte Dashwood, the sisters of the late Sophia Dashwood (d. 1826) in her memory to either John Popple or Jane Seymer in January 1827.
** During this period no marks were designated for the higher 22 carat standard and pieces continued to be struck with the same marks as silver.
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Maker: Andrew Hogg
Date: 1779
