Antique French Sterling Vermeil Open Salt 1819-1838

Silver : Antique

 

Exceptional and rare antique French sterling silver open salt cellar circa 1819-1838. Elaborate repousse styling with multiple iterations of shell motifs. The bowl of the cellar comprised of one large scalloped shell with vermeil interior applied with striking mixed metal effect. The handle a glorious confection of lamberkin tip spilling into an exquisitely beaded and ribbed acanthus leaf. Mounted with ribbed attachment to a shell adorned stem flowing into a tiered ribbed base abutting a footed tray. The tray mirrors the stem with ribbing and graceful shaped oval center edged with four elegant lamberkins amidst large gadrooned border. Raised upon four furling lamberkin feet. This piece has aged like the finest wine, with a delicate rich bouquet suited to most sophisticated of palettes. Condition is quite remarkably good. For a piece approaching 200 years of age, to find only a very minor deformation of one of the feet indicates that it has been cherished indeed. As well it should be. Sadly I have been unable to locate a maker's punch. A silver work of this level of artistry demands that some master smith be accorded deserved recognition. A truly superb addition to the finest collection; this piece guaranteed to amaze and delight.

Please see photos for dimensions and marks. In addition to the .950 sterling guarantee and Paris marks for 1819-1838, the salt has been re-struck with the Giraffe Head and Hure de Sanglier when the official guarantee marks changed in the year 1838.

Item ID: 847