Please note, boxes are for display only unless otherwise stated.

This beautiful Victorian Sterling Silver scent flask is a wonderfully tactile and character‑filled survivor from the late 19th century, made by one of the most respected silversmiths of the era, Sampson Mordan. Dating to 1886, this piece is now approximately 140 years old, yet it remains in exceptional condition, a testament to both its quality and the care it has received over generations
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Crafted in solid Sterling Silver, the flask has a very pleasing weight of 40 grams and measures approximately 6.5 × 5.0 cm, making it both substantial and perfectly proportioned in the hand. 

The design is particularly striking, with beautifully executed ribbed fluting flowing across the front, back, and lid. This sculptural detailing not only catches the light wonderfully but also gives the flask a lovely, reassuring feel when held.

To the front is an engraved cartouche bearing the finely stylised initials “MM”, adding a layer of personal history and charm. The lid opens and closes with a satisfying firmness, fitting securely just as it should. Remarkably for a piece of this age, there are no dents or dings, which is increasingly rare and highly desirable.

The flask is fully hallmarked, displaying Sampson Mordan’s maker’s mark, the Lion passant for Sterling silver, the Leopard’s head for London, the Sovereign’s head, and the date letter confirming manufacture/assay in 1886. 

Sampson Mordan was a pioneering figure in Victorian silver, best known for his precision craftsmanship and innovative small silver wares. His firm produced everything from scent bottles and vinaigrettes to mechanical pencils, many of which are now highly sought after by collectors for their durability, clever design, and timeless appeal.

Elegant, practical, and steeped in history, this scent flask is a delightful piece of Victorian silver. Whether added to a serious collection or treasured as a unique personal object, it offers charm, craftsmanship, and a tangible connection to the refined everyday luxuries of the Victorian era.

STONES
None

MEASUREMENTS
6.5cm x 5.0cm

WEIGHT
40.3 Grams

MARKS
Fully hallmarked for Sampson Mordan - City Road & Regent Street, London
Sovereigns head / Lion passant / Leopards head for London / ‘L’ date letter for 1886

ERA
Victorian 1886

CONDITION
Excellent antique condition.  A very solid and weighty 40 gram example with no dents to body or top, and no repairs.  Top screws on and off perfectly.  Hallmarks clear and legible, ever so slight fading only.  We’ve left some patina for originality, could be polished back more if desired.  A wonderful example by infamous Sampson Mordan!

HISTORY OF SAMPSON MORDAN & CO.

Sampson Mordan & Co. was founded by Sampson Mordan in the early nineteenth century, with the business established by 1823, the same year in which Mordan, in partnership with John Isaac Hawkins, patented the first practical propelling pencil. 
Sampson Mordan himself was active until his death in 1843, after which the firm continued under the same name, maintaining its reputation for finely crafted silver goods. 

The company remained in operation throughout the high Victorian period and into the early twentieth century, ceasing production in 1941 following wartime bombing in London. 

Across this long period of activity, Sampson Mordan & Co. became especially well known during the mid‑ to late‑Victorian era for its exceptional small silver objects, including scent bottles, vinaigrettes, and other personal luxury items that exemplify Victorian craftsmanship and design.