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Up for sale is a beautiful antique sterling silver nail buffer by R. Wallace & Sons Mfg. Co. of Wallingford, Connecticut — a lovely example of American Victorian/Edwardian vanity silver.
The oval, boat-shaped case is richly decorated with hand-chased repoussé scrollwork and floral motifs covering the lid and sides, with a scalloped rim. The lid lifts on a pivot to reveal the original chamois buffing pad on the underside, used to buff and shine fingernails — the standard manicure method of the era, before nail polish became widely used. These pieces were typically sold individually or as part of a larger silver dresser/vanity set.
Clearly marked on the base with the R. Wallace & Sons maker's mark (stag flanked by "RW" and "S") and "STERLING."
Details:
- Maker: R. Wallace & Sons Mfg. Co., Wallingford, CT
- Material: Sterling silver (.925)
- Weight: 3 troy oz
- Era: Victorian/Edwardian, circa 1890s–1910s
- Condition: Good antique condition with expected surface wear and patina consistent with age; original buffing pad intact; no monogram or engraving
- Markings: "STERLING" with R. Wallace & Sons stag hallmark
A charming piece of silver history and a great addition to any vanity silver or sterling collection.
