Antique George V Sterling Silver-Lidded Cut Glass Vanity Jar by J & R Griffin, Chester 1913

An elegant antique George V cut glass vanity jar or powder pot with a fitted solid sterling silver lid by J & R Griffin, fully hallmarked for Chester, 1913.

The low cushion-shaped glass base is richly faceted with diamond-cut and fan-cut patterns, creating a refined decorative effect as the surface catches and reflects the light. The sterling silver lid is engraved with flowing foliate scroll decoration and centred by a vacant, unengraved cartouche.

With its distinctive pillow-shaped form, attractive Chester hallmarks and practical size, this antique vanity jar is suitable for use as a trinket pot, jewellery container or decorative dressing-table accessory. It would also make a thoughtful gift for a collector of English silver or antique vanity items.

Details

Item: Antique vanity jar, powder pot or trinket jar

Maker: J & R Griffin

Assay Office: Chester, England

Date: 1913

Period: George V

Material: Cut glass base with fitted solid sterling silver lid, .925

Hallmarks: Full English sterling silver hallmarks for Chester 1913 with J & R Griffin maker’s mark

Silver Weight: 19.8 grams, lid only

Dimensions: Length 10.5 cm, height 4 cm

Design: Cushion-shaped cut-glass base with engraved foliate scroll decoration and a vacant cartouche on the silver lid

Condition

Good antique condition. The cut-glass base has a few tiny chips along the edges, consistent with age and use. The sterling silver lid fits well and has no dents. Please review the photographs carefully, as they form part of the description.

Historical and Collector Context

J & R Griffin, Joseph and Richard Griffin, were manufacturing jewellers and silversmiths based in Birmingham. Their Chester maker’s mark was registered in 1895, and the firm produced a varied range of decorative silver items, including dressing-table accessories, boxes, frames, cups and vanity sets.

This jar was assayed in Chester in 1913 during the reign of George V. Its combination of a decorative sterling silver lid, provincial Chester hallmarks and a richly faceted cut-glass base gives it both practical appeal and collector interest.

Please Note

All items are vintage or antique and may show light signs of age. Please review all photos carefully as they form part of the description. Feel free to message with any questions prior to purchase.