Pair of Antique Victorian Sterling Silver Open Salts by Thomas Hayes, Birmingham 1894

An elegant pair of antique Victorian sterling silver open salts crafted by Thomas Hayes and fully hallmarked for Birmingham 1894. Each salt cellar has a rounded cauldron-style form with richly embossed floral and foliate decoration, a fluted rim and three shaped feet.

The salts retain their cobalt-blue glass liners, which create a striking contrast against the silver and add a refined period character. The pair is accompanied by two later sterling silver salt spoons by Sargison’s of Hobart, Tasmania, adding an interesting Australian connection to the English Victorian set.

With a combined silver weight of approximately 134.4 grams, this decorative pair has a substantial feel and a strong table presence. The salts would make an attractive addition to a curated collection of Victorian silver or an elegant traditional dining setting.

Details

• Item: Pair of antique open salts with accompanying spoons
• Maker: Thomas Hayes
• Origin: Birmingham, England
• Date / Period: 1894, Victorian era
• Material: Sterling silver with cobalt-blue glass liners
• Hallmarks: Fully hallmarked for Birmingham 1894
• Decoration: Embossed floral and foliate motifs, fluted rims and three shaped feet Liners: Two cobalt-blue glass liners
• Accompanying Spoons: Two later sterling silver salt spoons by Sargison’s of Hobart, Tasmania
• Total Silver Weight: Approx. 134.4 g

Condition

Excellent antique condition with light age-related surface wear and natural patina consistent with previous use. The cobalt-blue glass liners are included, together with the two accompanying Sargison’s salt spoons. Please review the photographs carefully for the full condition.

Historical and Collector Context

Open salt cellars were refined table accessories during the Victorian period, often designed with decorative rims, shaped feet and removable coloured-glass liners. Cobalt-blue glass was particularly effective in creating a rich contrast against polished silver while also protecting the interior surface from direct contact with salt.

This pair is fully hallmarked for Birmingham 1894 and reflects the ornate floral taste of late Victorian silver tableware. The accompanying Sargison’s spoons introduce a separate Australian historical connection. Founded in Hobart in the early twentieth century, Sargison’s became associated with handcrafted silver spoons and Tasmanian metalwork.

Please review all photos carefully as they form part of the description. Feel free to message with any questions prior to purchase.