Pair Edwardian Sterling Terrier Salt & Pepper London, Jonathan Howell, 1906/1913

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Pair of Edwardian Sterling Terrier Pepper Pots, London, Jonathan Howell, 1906/1913

This whimsical pair of novelty sterling silver shakers, modeled … Read more Pair of Edwardian Sterling Terrier Pepper Pots, London, Jonathan Howell, 1906/1913

This whimsical pair of novelty sterling silver shakers, modeled as seated terriers in a “begging” pose, exemplifies the Edwardian taste for humor and charm in domestic silverware. Hallmarked in London for 1906 and 1913 and bearing the maker’s mark of Jonathan Howell, the pair demonstrates the silversmith’s artistry in casting, chasing, and finishing. Together they weigh 146 grams and measure 2.25 inches high by 1.5 inches by 1 inch.

The dogs are portrayed upright on their haunches, forepaws raised in an endearing posture familiar to contemporary audiences as a “trick” or “performance” stance. Their coats are rendered with remarkable naturalism: thick, wavy fur chased into the silver surface, with subtle oxidation deepening the relief and enhancing the texture. The breed appears to reference the popular Yorkshire or Skye terrier—companion dogs much in vogue in late Victorian and Edwardian society, prized for their intelligence, playfulness, and long shaggy coats. The sculptural quality of the modeling allows each figure to function both as a table ornament and as a tactile, interactive object.

The heads are removable to allow filling. In practice, such figures were most often used as pepper pots, since salt was usually served from open cellars or salt bowls at the Edwardian table. Beyond pepper, they could also be filled with finely ground spices such as cinnamon or cayenne, bringing both practicality and amusement to the dining ritual. Such anthropomorphic table accessories were a hallmark of the period, enlivening dining rituals with wit and conversation. The use of precious silver elevated these from mere condiment containers to luxury amusements—small masterpieces that blended humor with craftsmanship.

Jonathan Howell, active in London in the early 20th century, specialized in silver novelties, producing animal-form peppers, mustard pots, and other whimsical wares. His work reflects a continuation of the Victorian fascination with animal studies in silver, but with a lighter Edwardian spirit, bridging the transition from late 19th-century eccentricity to early 20th-century refinement.

Today, this pair of terrier-form peppers resonates with collectors across categories—as rare survivals of Edwardian novelty silver, as endearing representations of beloved canine companions, and as superbly crafted table accessories that embody both artistry and humor.

Dimensions: 2.25" high × 1.5" wide × 1" deep
Weight: 146 grams
Date: 1906 and 1913
Origin: London, England
Maker: Jonathan Howell See less