Designed to be beautiful as well as functional, objects of vertu are small objects created from precious materials either to be admired simply as works of art or, more often, as luxury items with a practical purpose. The subject includes familiar items such as cigarette cases, scent bottles, snuff boxes, fans, vesta cases, card cases and pincushions plus once fashionable accoutrements such as vinaigrettes, etuis and bonbonnières.
They collectively take their name from the ‘virtuosity’ of their craftsmanship - be it a presentation gold and gem set box from Romanov Russia or a Cartier vanity case made for a 1920s Flapper. Sworders enjoyed huge interest when offering a collection of diminutive porcelain scent bottles made by the Chelsea and St James’s factories c.1750s.
With new interest from around the world, and perfectly sized to appeal to collectors tight on space, this area has recently enjoyed a revival.
Our specialists hold regular valuation days. Please contact us for more information, or complete the online form to enquire about the valuation of your items.
Want to know how much your Objects of Vertu may be worth? Fill out our easy to use form and a member of the team will be in touch with free advice shortly.
Sworders London Gallery welcomed guests for a captivating talk by curator and art historian Vivienne Roberts, offering a fascinating insight into the life and extraordinary work of Madge Gill.
4 August 2026
On Thursday 11 June we were thrilled to host a talk given by the incomparable Rufus Bird, staged at our London Gallery in Cecil Court.
3 July 2026
Situated in the heart of South Kensington, 18 Thurloe Square forms part of one of London's most distinguished nineteenth-century garden residences, and we are delighted to offer items from this collection in our forthcoming Fine Interiors sale.
8 June 2026
