Victorian Silver & Enamel Lady Sailor Vesta Case
Sampson Mordan & Co 1889
Photo 1 of 15
A very fine and extremely rare Victorian silver and enamel Vesta Case of plain rectangular form with hinged lid, the cover enamelled with an image of a lady sailor holding a telescope.
By Sampson Mordan, London 1889.
Engraved - 'COPYRIGHT' to bottom left corner.
Sold - £2,250.00
Condition
In fine original condition with no damage or repair, minor surface scratches to enamel.
Dimensions
H
57 mm
(2.24 inches)
W
34 mm
(1.34 inches)
D
10 mm
(0.39 inches)
Weight
44.50 Grams
(1.43 troy ounces)
Country
England
Stock Code
VGH4
Literature
Seagoing careers were closed to women during the sailing ship era. A woman might disguise herself as a man and assume a fictitious name; but if she was discovered, her career would be over. The only way for most women to take part in running a merchant vessel before 1900, when sailing ships reigned supreme, was through marriage or by being the captain’s daughter.
