Early George III Sterling Silver Salt Cellar

hallmarked London, 1768-1769, probably Elizabeth Muns, circular cauldron form, with threaded band and raised on three stepped-crested and -pad feet, the interior gilt and fitted with a later cobalt glass liner.
h. 1-1/4", dia. 2-1/2"; 1.14 total t. oz. (excluding liner)

Literature: Philippa Glanville, & Jennifer Faulds Goldsborough, Women Silversmiths, 1685-1845: Works from the Collection of The National Museum of Women in the Arts (New York: Thames & Hudson, 1990), p. 149.
Arthur G. Grimwade, London Goldsmiths, 1697-1837: Their Marks and Lives, Third Edition (London: Faber & Faber, 1990), p. 604.



Notes: Although Elizabeth Muns is assumed to have been the widow of John Muns (see lot 25) as she entered her mark in May 1768 - two months after his death - it is to be noted that his will does not mention any wife and his estate was left to his four children, the eldest of whom was a daughter Elizabeth, not then yet of age. If she was his wife, she was likely the sister of William Wing, whom Muns named as his brother-in-law in the will. Whatever the case, Elizabeth Muns appeared to have continued the shop only a very short time, probably no more than a year.

**Numerous tiny nicks and scuffs consistent with age and use, but no dents, breaks or repairs noted. Fading to the gilding. Three small chips on the interior rim of the glass liner.