Ernest W. Haywood - Dinner set (9) - .925 silver - Condiment Set

Sterling Silver Condiment Set in 925 Silver and Period Octagonal Tray with Original Case – Ernest W. Haywood, Birmingham - (1933)

Description:
Exquisite and exceedingly rare British dining set (cruet set) in Victorian / post-Edwardian (between the wars) style, manufactured in 1933. This lot stands out for being absolutely complete, preserving not only all the original silver pieces but also the iconic cobalt blue glass liners (Bristol Blue Glass) and the original presentation case in velvet and satin.

The set is composed of 6 solid silver containers (2 salt shakers/pourers, 2 mustard jars with lids and handles, and 2 open condiment containers), accompanied by 2 original serving spoons. The open containers and mustard jars include their respective cobalt blue glass inner cups, historically designed to protect the metal from corrosion caused by acids and salt.

The pieces rest perfectly on a magnificent and imposing period tray, octagonal with a pierced gallery/rim and ornamental handles. The tray’s base features a stunning marbled effect that emulates tortoiseshell, very fashionable in the 1930s, and also displays a central engraved coat of arms.

Technical Details and Contrast Marks (Hallmarks):
Containers and Spoons: British Sterling Silver (min. 925/1000 purity). All containers bear the complete, clear Birmingham assay marks: Gothic date letter "J" (1933), the Lion Passant, and the Anchor.
Master Silversmith: Initials "E.W.H", official assay mark of Ernest W. Haywood, a respected maker based on Hylton Street in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter (registered mark in 1932).
Solid Silver Weight: 105 grams (net weight measured for the pieces and spoons only, excluding the glass liners and the tray).

Tray: In Faux Tortoiseshell, marked on the edge with the initials "F.T.R E.P.N.S." (Electroplated Nickel Silver), indicating a robust metal core coated with silver by electroplating. The mark F.T.R corresponds to the registered brand of the prestigious British company F. T. Ray & Co. This was a London-based studio producing luxury silverware and cutlery around the late 19th to early 20th century (covering Late Victorian and Edwardian periods).

Condition:
Excellent vintage/antique condition for a piece nearly a century old. The silver shows a magnificent natural patina, with inscriptions and hallmarks perfectly legible. All pieces are marked. The cobalt blue glasses are intact, with no chips or cracks. The tray retains the vibrant tortoiseshell-like effect and the hinge mechanism of the handles remains firm.

The original period case shows some normal exterior wear due to age, but the interior in dark velvet and the lid satin are well preserved, securely holding all pieces.
A set of exceptional quality and refinement, ideal for English silver collectors or to adorn a refined table with an authentic piece of 1930s history.

Tray dimensions: 29 x 15.5 x 4 cm
Pieces average 5 x 5 cm and weigh 108 g of pure silver each, excluding the cobalt blue glass cups.
The complete set weighs 803 g.

Photos are part of the description.