This is a charming and unusual Pair of Victorian Sterling Silver Pepper Shakers. The shakers have flat bottomed bulbous bases which are extensively decorated with flowers and scrolling foliage. The cylindrical shaker sections have domed tops with turned finials. There are no initials or personalisation of any kind.

The pepper shakers were made in Birmingham by silversmith Joseph Hawkins and date to 1888. Joseph Hawkins was a Birmingham silversmith active between around 1880 and 1910. There is some uncertainty in regard to his makers’ mark but it is generally accepted that it was a simple J.H with no border. He produced a range of consistently good quality small silverware for domestic and personal use.

Condition is very good, with no dings or dents and just the superficial surface wear that you would anticipate after over 135 years of good service. Please make sure to view all the photographs.

The pepper shakers are 5.5cm / 2.1ins high and 3cm / 1.2ins in diameter across the bases. The pair together weigh in at a respectable 36.0g / 1.27oz of solid Sterling Silver.

The hallmarks, on the undersides of the bases, are well struck and clear to read. They show the lion passant for Sterling Silver, the anchor assay mark for Birmingham, the date letter o for 1888, the Queen Victoria duty mark and the J.H makers' mark for Joseph Hawkins.