How were salt cellars used?

Diners used salt cellars by taking pinches of salt from the open vessel using small spoons or fingers to season food at the table. These pieces were typically paired with glass liners to protect the silver from corrosion caused by the salt.

What are knife rests for?

Knife rests kept carving and dining knives elevated above the tablecloth between courses to keep linen clean. They appear in various forms, from simple bars to novelty animal figures.

How do I date Victorian silver?

Victorian silver is dated using the set of hallmarks stamped into the metal, which include city assay marks, date letters and maker's marks. Additional clues come from the stylistic preferences and packaging conventions of the nineteenth century.

Are cased items original?

Many Victorian and Edwardian pairs remain inside their original velvet or silk-lined presentation cases manufactured specifically for the set. These fitted boxes indicate items intended as gifts or special domestic purchases.