This object is part of a set of condiment vases and spoons used for serving mustard, sugar and pepper. The vessels are formed like classical vases. Italian excavations of ancient Roman sites had inspired a new interest in Neo-classical shapes such as these. The scallop-shell ornament on the vases matches the accompanying spoons. The set later belonged to the distinguished American collector and financier, J. Pierpont Morgan.

When the Catholic King Louis XIV revoked the Edict of Nantes in 1685, Huguenots (French Protestants) were forced to leave the country. Many were craftsmen who settled in London. Their technical skills and fashionable French style ensured the luxury silver, furniture, watches and jewellery they made were highly sought after. Huguenot specialists transformed English silver by introducing higher standards of craftsmanship. They promoted new forms, such as the soup tureen and sauceboat, and introduced a new repertoire of ornament, with cast sculptural details and exquisite engraving.

Sir Arthur Gilbert and his wife Rosalinde formed one of the world's great decorative art collections, including silver, mosaics, enamelled portrait miniatures and gold boxes. Arthur Gilbert donated his extraordinary collection to Britain in 1996.