Hovedvandsaeg? Help with maker and date?

[bstaunto]

Hi team,

I think this is a Hovedvandsaeg. Quick initial question, what was kept in the base? I understand the top was for spice?

Also after some help with the maker of this one? It seems an uncommon shape for them? I would date it around 1780-1800, but keen to hear other's thoughts.





Thanks,

Ben

[Goldstein]

Hi bstaunto -

I think your spicebox is not authentic anymore - the holes on top were later added. Also the decoration of the top (crown, figures etc) is missing.
Content top: sponge soaked with a scent
Content base: balm

The maker from Frederikshavn/Denmark


Some example to show the different top decorations:


Regards
Goldstein

[bstaunto]

Hi Goldstein,

Thanks so much. That's a shame its been 'modified' like that. Thanks for identifying the maker and showing me some beautiful examples.

Live and learn! (I will definitely know for next time!)

Cheers, Ben.

[dognose]

Quick initial question, what was kept in the base?

I was always under the impression that Scandinavian ladies held these pieces in their hands whilst attending church on Sundays. The compartment in the base was to contain a coin for the collection as their dresses had no pockets.

Trev.

[Goldstein]

Hi Trev -

yes and no.




Primarily the little compartment at the bottom was used for balm (cinnamon, nutmeg, rosemary, lavender etc.) Later when perfumes were available this little compartments were not used anymore. According to the usual size 1,5 cm x 1,5 cm, 2 cm x 1,5 cm, 2,5 cm x 2,5 cm, Ø 2 cm, Ø 3 cm not many coins fitted. I think that is/was a dealers answer to a customer´s question. The relevant literature never mention that. I found 2 or 3 with coins in the bottom - but obsolete foreign currency - and very small.

Regards
Goldstein

[dognose]

Hi Goldstein,

Many thanks for the explanation.

Trev.

[Goldstein]

Hi -

for all the interested:
This nice little objects were not "only" in silver available - but also in gold, encrusted with precious stones.
Advantage: no fakes on the market (until today...)!




2 important books for the interested by a very, very knowing lady.



Regards
Goldstein