Anthropomorphic Owl Shakers Appraisal

Vintage Anthropomorphic Owl Salt and Pepper Shaker Set

This is a matching pair of ceramic salt and pepper shakers designed in the likeness of stylized, anthropomorphic owls. Each figurine measures approximately 2.5 to 3 inches in height. The construction features a glossy glazed ceramic finish with meticulous hand-painted details. The color palette consists of a cream-colored breast with textured feather indentations, transitioning into a taupe-grey gradient on the wings and the crown of the head. Large, circular white eye patches surround solid black pupils, giving the owls a whimsical, wide-eyed expression. The beaks and oversized talons are finished in a contrasting warm tan or butterscotch hue. Notable features include fine linear detailing around the eye patches and a subtle speckled texture on the lower body. Each shaker has distinct dispensing holes on the top of the head—one with two holes and the other with three—to differentiate between salt and pepper. The condition appears excellent with a high surface luster and no visible chips, cracks, or crazing. These pieces are characteristic of mid-20th-century Japanese ceramic imports, likely dating from the 1960s to 1970s, known for their charming animal motifs and quality mass-market craftsmanship.