An exceptional, fine and impressive pair of antique Victorian English cast sterling silver gilt salts; an addition to our silver cruet and condiment collection

These exceptional antique Victorian sterling silver salts have been realistically modelled in the form of a seated mermaid holding a large shell.

These cast antique silver salts are each embellished with details reproducing the fine definition of the mermaid"s tail and anatomical features.

The mermaid models are each using one hand to hold a large oyster style shell, composing the salt cellar.

Each salt is supported by a shaped swept foot ornamented with shell and rock decoration.

These antique pieces of silverware retain the original gilding.

The underside of each piece bears the contemporary bright cut engraved crest of out of a ducal coronet an armoured arm embowed, holding in the hand a scimitar.

These antique Victorian sterling silver salts are an exceptional gauge of silver, exceptional quality and in exceptional condition.

The cast decoration is all very sharp and the bright cut engraved crests are sharp.

There is some minor loss to the gilding to the underside, as often expected in keeping with age.

Full hallmarks struck to the surface of each salt are all very clear in keeping with age; the hallmarks are struck deeply due to the exceptional gauge of silver.

Reflections in photographs may detract from the true representation of these pieces of antique silverware.

Length from front of shell to base 10.1cm/4"

Width 9.8cm/3.9"

Height 5.4cm/2.1"

19.4 troy ounces/604g

Date: 1868

Origin: London, England

Maker: Samuel Hayne & Dudley Cater