Pair of EPNS Salt Cellars with Cobalt Blue Glass Liners (unauthenticated)

This pair of small open salt cellars features circular metal frames with pierced Greek key or geometric gallery bands, elevated on diminutive feet. Each frame holds a deep cobalt blue glass liner insert with characteristic manufacturing irregularities and polished rims. The metal exterior exhibits a noticeable dark patina, tarnish, and signs of age-related oxidation, while the blue glass liners appear vibrant with only minor surface wear. The owner provides unverified contextual notes indicating markings on the base reading 'D&B X EPNS', which would typically suggest electroplated nickel silver construction, though these details are not fully legible in the current photographs. The overall design and materials are broadly consistent with mid-to-late Victorian or Edwardian dining table accessories, often used for serving individual portions of salt or condiments before the widespread adoption of free-flowing table salt. The attribution rests on visual observation of the metal-and-glass construction and unverified owner notes, as no maker marks can be independently read from the provided images.

Based on what I can see in the provided images, this pair of open salt cellars features circular metal frames with pierced gallery bands and cobalt blue glass liners, a style consistent with Victorian or Edwardian tableware accessories. Per user submission, the base is said to bear markings reading 'D&B X EPNS', which suggests electroplated nickel silver construction. However, I can't verify from a photo whether these stamped marks are clear, complete, or contemporary to the piece, as hallmark details are not fully legible in the current photographs. The metal exterior displays a notable dark patina and tarnish, while the vibrant blue glass liners show minor surface wear. My appraisal value estimate of $60-100 assumes the owner's attribution to electroplated nickel silver is correct and that the items are period pieces. If physical inspection reveals the markings to be later reproductions, copies, or merely 'in the style of' vintage table accessories, the value would likely drop to the $20-40 range. General market demand for small antique silver-plated open salts and condiment liners tends to be modest today, as changing dining habits have limited their functional utility, though decorative collectors still seek matching pairs. To fully assess and confirm authenticity, I would need physical inspection to examine the hallmarks under magnification, test the metal composition, and check for manufacturing characteristics typical of the period.