Silver Spice Container in the Form of a Poodle, 18th century

Silver Spice Container in the Form of a Poodle.

18th century.

Measurements: 6.1 × 5.8 × 2.2 cm.
Weight: 73 grams.

A silver spice container in the form of a seated poodle, consisting of a hollow body with a fully detachable head serving as the cover, both parts connected by the original chain. The body is smoothly modelled, while the neck and head bear a stylised engraved fur pattern. The head is set with faceted diamond eyes, and the mouth incorporates a small protruding copper tongue between silver teeth.

Such zoomorphic spice containers form part of the wider 18th-century fashion for sculptural domestic silver modelled as animals, produced for the storage of aromatic substances or pastilles. The mixed-metal detailing and well-preserved fittings underscore the quality of manufacture and the piece’s survival in unusually complete condition.