This is a charming and highly collectible antique Victorian figural master salt cellar (open salt dip / pin dish) dating to the late 19th century (circa 1885–1900).
Hand-crafted with historical production methods, the piece features a shallow cauldron-style center bowl flanked by two sculpted figural soldiers or huntsmen in traditional period attire who function as both handles and supportive legs.
Design & Construction Details Registry Stamp: The back of one soldier features a partial British "REG" (Registered Design) mark, applied at the foundry to protect the pattern design from competing British metal makers.
Assembly Method: True to the era, the item is constructed using mechanical peened rivets. The solid brass pins were driven through from the interior and hammered flat on the outside of the figures. One rivet is placed intentionally directly over the registry mark, which was a common occurrence during manual assembly in old workshops.
Intended Use: The completely flush, counter-sunk interior rivet heads and the shallow, rolled-rim layout indicate that this piece was manufactured to hold a removable glass liner (typically cobalt blue or clear glass) to protect the metal framework from salt corrosion.
Condition Good antique condition with a wonderful, authentic dark-aged patina.Shows normal surface scratches, scuffs, and tiny casting pits consistent with age and active tabletop use.
Note: The original glass interior liner is missing (the metal frame stands completely sturdy and functions wonderfully on its own as a unique trinket dish or historical cabinet piece).
