Prachtig antiek stel massief zilveren zoutvaatjes / specerijenpotjes, Frankrijk, 19e eeuw - Salt and pepper shakers - .950 silver

Beautiful antique pair of solid silver salt cellars / spice pots. France, 19th century, after 1878

Exceptional pair of solid silver salt cellars (sometimes also used for precious spices). Complete with their original removable glass liners, this refined little set exudes the pure luxury of the late 19th-century French aristocracy.

These salt cellars are not merely functional works of art; they also come with a rich, documented history:

• Official Hallmark (Export): On the side is the 'tête de Mercure' (Mercury mark). This is the official French hallmark used exclusively for high-quality silver objects made in France but intended for international export. It guarantees 1st standard silver (at least 950/1000), which is even purer than the well-known sterling silver (925/1000).

• Maker's Marks: Two diamond-shaped maker's marks are found on the underside. One shows the letter 'A' followed by the number '1' (the maker's initials). The official registered maker's mark in the other diamond shows the letter 'A' with a cloverleaf and a partly illegible number/mark.

• The Silversmith: These features point very strongly to the renowned Parisian silversmith Stanislas Audianne, who was registered and active from 1888 to 1896.

The design of these pots is a splendid example of late 19th-century eclecticism, strongly inspired by exotic Eastern forms such as the traditional Indian Kalash (sacred water vessel) or ceremonial betel pots.

• Repoussé Technique: The sides are decorated all around with exceptionally refined and detailed embossed floral and classical patterns.

• Vermeil Interior: The interior is beautifully gilded (vermeil). This is not only an important aesthetic quality feature that lends a warm, golden glow, but also served a crucial practical purpose at the time: the gold protected the silver from the corrosive chemical effects of acids and salt.

The pots are in very beautiful condition. The silver shines beautifully, and the glass liners are completely intact and undamaged.

Weight: 34.40 grams (net silver weight, excluding the glass liners).

Dimensions:
Opening diameter: 4.2 cm
Height: 3.5 cm

A rare and exceptionally charming collectible for lovers of antique French silver, or a dazzling, exclusive functional adornment for the festive table.

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