Art Deco Hexagonal Sterling Silver Salt and Pepper Shakers
Hollowware (Tableware - Shaker Set) · Unknown American or English manufacturer. Stylistically reminiscent of mid-tier American makers like Gorham, International Silver, or Fisher Silversmiths during their Art Deco peak.
Pattern: Unidentified Geometric/Hexagonal Pattern; likely a mid-century or late Art Deco stock pattern characterized by faceted surfaces and tapered bodies.
Type
Hollowware (Tableware - Shaker Set)
Maker
Unknown American or English manufacturer. Stylistically reminiscent of mid-tier American makers like Gorham, International Silver, or Fisher Silversmiths during their Art Deco peak.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or high-quality silver plate. Given the visible corrosion on the top of the left shaker (likely salt-induced oxidation/verdigris), the base metal may be copper or brass if plated, or reacting sterling if unlined.
Dimensions
Estimated height of 5-6 inches (12-15 cm). These are 'tall' table shakers rather than individual 'open salts'. Weight is likely light to moderate, approximately 80-120 grams per set if sterling.
Description
A pair of striking Art Deco shakers featuring an elegant, elongated hexagonal form. These tall shakers command attention on the table with their architectural presence, reflecting the 20th-century fascination with skyscrapers and geometric symmetry.
Key Features
Sharp hexagonal faceting; elongated, tapered 'trumpet' body; stepped base; classic acorn-style finials. The verticality is the defining characteristic of this specific design.
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or high-quality silver plate. Given the visible corrosion on the top of the left shaker (likely salt-induced oxidation/verdigris), the base metal may be copper or brass if plated, or reacting sterling if unlined.
Finish & Decoration
Polished finish with geometric faceting. Minimal decoration, relying on the clean lines of the Art Deco / Streamline Moderne style. Features a hexagonal base and a domed, finial-topped lid.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not visible in image. Typical placement would be on the underside of the hexagonal base or near the lower rim. Expected marks: 'Sterling', a maker's mark (symbol or name), and potentially a model number.
Construction Details
Likely die-struck or machine-spun components. The pieces are composed of a weighted or hollow hexagonal base, a tapered central column, and a removable friction-fit or screw-top lid. The column shows signs of being joined to the base via soldering.
Functional Features
Removable domed lids with perforated holes for dispensing seasoning. The left shaker shows green verdigris, a common functional issue when salt sits in contact with metal for decades without a glass liner.
Handle & Grip Details
No handles present. The 'grip' is the central faceted column, designed for easy handling during dining. Topped with a small ball/teardrop finial for lid removal.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial craftsmanship. The facets are uniform, indicating machine production. The quality is found in the proportions and the tight fit of the lids rather than hand-chased details.
Authentication Indicators
The profile is consistent with mid-20th century production. The verdigris on the left shaker suggests a copper-content base (either silver plating over brass/copper or sterling alloy reacting). A 'Sterling' stamp would confirm precious metal content.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States or United Kingdom. Mass-produced in industrial centers like Providence, RI (USA) or Birmingham (UK), which specialized in geometric tableware during this era.
Era & Period
Art Deco / Machine Age (c. 1925–1945). The tall, sleek, aerodynamic silhouette and hexagonal faceting are classic hallmarks of the 1930s design aesthetic.
Age Estimate
Circa 1930–1950. The design reflects the transition from high Deco to the more utilitarian forms of the early post-war period.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of design, where the avant-garde Art Deco style was applied to everyday household objects, transitioning silver from ornate Victorian styles to modern minimalism.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Significant oxidation and verdigris (green corrosion) visible on the holes of the left shaker cap. Heavy tarnish/toning across the bodies. Surface scratches and possible minor dings consistent with age and use.
Value Estimate
$40–$80 for the pair if silver plate; $120–$250 if confirmed Sterling Silver, depending on maker and weight.
Care & Maintenance
Requires immediate deep cleaning of the salt shaker cap to stop corrosion. Use a mild silver cream (Wright's) and a soft brush. Store with anti-tarnish strips. Never leave salt in the shaker for extended periods.
Similar Pieces
Similar to Gorham 'Fairfax' or 'Puritan' lines, though the faceting suggests a more hardware-inspired manufacturer. Competes with chrome-plated Art Deco shakers of the same era.
Interesting Facts
Salt was historically so corrosive to silver that many high-end makers began lining silver shakers with gold (vermeil) or glass to prevent the exact green corrosion seen on the left piece here.