Elegant Pair Large Gorham Sterling Master Salts

Open salts were a staple on any Victorian table. They were produced in a variety of materials, including glass, ceramic, and as the case with this pair, in silver. No company generated more examples of this form than Gorham. Indeed, the Tompkins book on this subject documents a full century of Gorham's production. According to Tompkins, this set, item number 2480, dates to 1890. These possess a commanding look. They are large, 4 1/2" long, 1 3/4" tall, and weighty, 3.9 T. oz. combined. They each stand on four gracious legs that are surmounted by shells. The bodies are ovoid, with pointed ends. Each of the ends is shaped into a plume that is gathered into a fleur-de-lis. They have gadrooned borders and coffered bottoms. They are in flawless condition. There are no dents or dings. The legs are even, and the finishes are superb.