Object Description
This is a truly striking and rare antique Victorian cased set of four luxury sterling silver salt cellars with spoons, bearing the makers mark HL over HL for H J Lias & Sons, and hallmarks for 1875.
Each salt cellar is a charming round shape with gilt wash interior and engraved with a foliate band, the rims, feet and spoons with beaded detail
It is housed in a sumptuous leather shaped circular box with purple silk and velvet lining.
This set would definitely enhance your dining experience as well as make a beautiful gift.
Condition:
These handsome salts are in really excellent condition. Please see photos for confirmation of condition.
Dimensions in cm:
Height 6 x Width 18 x Depth 19
Weight 4.7 troy oz
Dimensions in inches:
Height 2.4 x Width 7.1 x Depth 7.5
Weight 0.15 kg
Salt
As far back as 6050 BC, salt has been an important and integral part of the world’s history, as it has been interwoven into countless civilizations. Used as a part of Egyptian religious offerings and valuable trade between the Phoenicians and their Mediterranean empire, salt and history have been inextricably intertwined for millennia, with great importance placed on salt by many different cultures. Even today, the history of salt touches our daily lives. The word salary was derived from the word salt. Salt was highly valued and its production was legally restricted in ancient times, so it was historically used as a method of trade and currency. The word salad also originated from “salt,” and began with the early Romans salting their leafy greens and vegetables. Undeniably, the history of salt is both broad and unique, leaving its indelible mark in cultures across the globe.
Henry John Lias & Henry John Lias
The origins go back to 1791, when John Lias began in business as a buckle-maker.
In 1818 he took as his partner his son Henry Lias I and they were joined from 1823 to 1837 by another son, Charles.
Henry Lias I and his son Henry Lias II were partners from 1850. In 1879 Henry Lias II formed a firm with James Wakely.
In 1884 the firm consisted of James Wakely and Frank Wheeler, becoming Wakely & Wheeler in 1909.
In 1957 the business was acquired by Padgett & Braham Ltd.
Our reference: A1571b