Antique Victorian Solid Silver Salt/butter Dish Pair, Cast Shell Giant Clam Design - Stephen Smith 1866

We are delighted to offer this magnificent and rare Victorian solid silver shell salt/butter dish with marks for Stephen Smith, London 1876. Apparent upon first glance, this marvellous silver shell is a sculptural work of art in its own right. The entire design, proportion and aesthetics are delightful and capture the essence of Rococo (revival) with asymmetric, fluid and naturalistic decorations. Formed in the shape of a giant clam, this salt cellar/butter dish takes on a nautical theme and would also make for the perfect caviar/seafood hors d'oeuvre dish today. As with many Rococo designs, these sculptural objects are embellished in all dimensions as if to invite the onlooker to handle the object and view it from different angles. No matter the viewpoint, there is an interesting, artistic and intricate detail for the viewer's delight. This shell sits on three cast feet that are wonderfully designed as corals - such a minute yet ornate detail truly conveys the sense of intricacy and the 'no costs cut' attitude in the making of this piece. Whether be it a wonderful collectable object of vertu or a modestly sized yet opulent piece of silverware to use on your table, this piece would certainly make for a fine addition to any silver display and the discerning collector. Additionally, with some creative uses, it may also be used to hold some small sweets, tablets or even as a jewellery dish in the modern day. A full set of English hallmarks are present near the tip of the shell on the reverse side. *Please note: all images with other items are for display purposes only, this listing is for the title item only. Size Size (cm) L:9cm W:6cm H:3cm Size (inches) L:3.54 W:2.36 H:1.18 Weight: 55 grams (1.76 Troy oz) Condition Excellent Condition - The shell is in excellent antique condition, with no damage or issues. We aim to overemphasize and state these issues to avoid disappointment and thus please rest assured they are not significant nor affect the usage of the items. Please refer to the photographs to examine the condition in further detail. Free Shipping Artisan Antiques offers free global shipping with professional, secure and discreet packaging. We will always ensure your items are packaged with the utmost care and see the delivery through to the end. In the very rare and unfortunate case of non-delivery/courier loss, you are fully covered with us and we will fully refund you. *All parcels are insured - please rest assured all shipping liabilities other than import/customs duty are covered by Artisan Antiques. *Colours of the product may slightly differ from the photos due to different computer screens & lighting conditions* - Price negotiations may be possible under certain criteria, please contact us via telephone (07578761640) or email (info@artisanantiques.net) -