Antique George III Sterling Silver Salt Cellars | Robert Hennell I, London 1778, 92g

Antique George III Sterling Silver Salt Cellars | Robert Hennell I, London 1778

An exceptionally handsome matching pair of authentic late-Georgian sterling silver open salt cellars, crafted by the highly celebrated silversmith Robert Hennell I.

Each piece features striking Neo-classical pierced vertical slats, geometric openwork borders, and stands proudly on four beautifully detailed cast ball-and-claw feet. The silver frames house their vibrant, removable cobalt blue glass liners — providing a brilliant flash of colour typical of high-end 18th-century British silversmithing.

A wonderful addition for serious silver collectors, historic dining displays, or as a sophisticated antique gift with genuine 240+ year-old historical patina.

Hallmarks

Both silver frames feature a crisp, matching set of British hallmarks stamped into the underside rim:

• Maker's Mark: R·H — Robert Hennell I, celebrated Georgian silversmith. Note: both marks were struck historically inverted, a common and authentic quirk of hand-stamped 18th-century silver.
• Fineness Mark: Lion Passant — guaranteed sterling silver .925
• Assay Mark: Crowned Leopard's Head — London Assay Office
• Date Letter: Lowercase 'c' in shield cartouche — datable exactly to 1778

Specifications

• Material: Solid Sterling Silver (.925) with cobalt blue glass liners
• Silver Weight: 92g (approx. 2.95 troy oz — silver frames only, excludes glass weight)
• Length: Approx. 3¼" (8.25cm)
• Width: Approx. 2½" (6.35cm)
• Height: Just under 2" (5cm)
• Base Style: Four cast ball-and-claw feet

Condition

Good antique condition with wonderful character consistent with over 240 years of history. We describe condition honestly so you know exactly what you are buying:

• Both central rectangular side panels show noticeable historical compression/grip marks, likely from an unprotected tool or clamp during historic handling or polishing
• The internal silver support rims where the glass dishes rest show minor, authentic historic waving, likely from past handling or the seating of the liners over time
• No structural compromises or wobbles — all four feet on both pieces sit perfectly level, flush, and flat on the tabletop
• One cobalt blue glass liner has a few very slight, expected flea-bite nibbles along the upper rim; the second liner is completely free of chips or cracks
• Light surface scratching and natural patina consistent with age

Please inspect all photographs closely to verify condition details — the item pictured is the exact pair you will receive.

What's Included

• Pair of George III Sterling Silver Salt Cellar Frames
• Pair of Removable Cobalt Blue Glass Liners
• Luxury black presentation box
• Anti-tarnish tissue

Shipping

Sent via Royal Mail Special Delivery — fully tracked, insured, and signature required on delivery.