Presenting an exceptional antique miniature perfume bottle, a superb example of historical vanity craftsmanship. Standing at a delicate 6cm, this oval-shaped flask features the highly collectible “caged glass” design. The clear glass vial is tightly encased within a masterful 18-karat gold-plated filigree sleeve, displaying precise scrollwork and structural elegance.
The focal point of the front presentation is a striking, large lapis-lazuli cabochon. The deep, celestial blue of the stone is speckled with characteristic golden pyrite inclusions, set prominently within a raised, textured gold-plated bezel. Turning the piece over reveals a unique and highly significant historical detail: the reverse side of the clear glass body is boldly embossed with the raised letters “VPCP,” clearly visible through the gold-plated cage. The flask is crowned with a finely ribbed, threaded gold-plated cap that safely houses the original glass applicator wand.
Historical Context
Miniature luxury items of this caliber were a hallmark of late 19th and early 20th-century European craftsmanship. Often referred to as “purse” or “chatelaine” perfume bottles, diminutive pieces like this 6cm flask were designed for the elite to carry their bespoke fragrances discretely. The intricate filigree work was not only highly decorative but served to protect the fragile glass vessel during travel. The prominent use of lapis lazuli—a semi-precious stone historically associated with royalty, wisdom, and truth—elevates this piece from a mere vanity accessory to a statement of significant wealth and refined taste. The embossed “VPCP” likely denotes a specific historical perfumery, prominent maker, or aristocratic initialing, adding an invaluable layer of provenance for the serious collector.
Item Specifications
Feature
Detail
Material
18k Gold Plate (filigree cage), Glass (vial and dauber)
Gemstone
Large Lapis Lazuli cabochon (with pyrite flecks)
Height
6 cm (approx. 2.36 inches)
Glass Maker’s Mark
Raised embossed lettering “VPCP” on reverse glass
Applicator
Threaded ribbed cap with attached original glass wand
Condition Report
This antique artifact is in excellent, collector-ready condition, showing a level of preservation rarely seen in utility glass of this era. The provided macro-level photography captures the exceptional detail and structural integrity of the piece.
Front Decoration: The central lapis lazuli cabochon is firmly set, smooth, and free of cracks, displaying excellent natural color and pyrite distribution (DSC_0285.jpg).
Metalwork (Filigree): The 18k gold-plated cage exhibits remarkable structural integrity with a bright, lustrous finish across the intricate scrollwork. The side profile demonstrates the depth of the raised bezel setting (DSC_0288.jpg).
Glass Body & Markings: The inner glass vial is clear and free of visible cracks. The “VPCP” embossed lettering on the reverse is crisp and highly legible (DSC_0287.jpg).
Cap & Dauber: The gold-plated cap features deep, unrubbed ribbing and threads smoothly onto the glass neck. Crucially, the delicate glass dauber wand remains completely intact and securely affixed to the screw-top cap (DSC_0290.jpg, DSC_0291.jpg).
Shipping & Handling
Given the delicate historical nature of this collectible, it will be packaged using professional-grade, archival-quality protective materials to ensure absolute security during transit. Please review the shipping tab for calculated rates and international delivery options.
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