Two Mennecy table salts circa 1760

each modelled with a putto perched on a shell set on a base of rocks, the shell interiors painted with flower sprays, one also with a snake the other with a dragon, some damage

Purchased in 1944 from Kerin, for £60.

One putto figure has been broken across the shoulders and stuck back in place. The glue has discoloured now. There is a little very minor rubbing to enamels. One has a firing crack running across the underside of the shell. This same salt has an inscribed name under the base in ink, 'S. Ni...n', possibly a previous owner's name.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

A similar pair of salts is in Hartford, Connecticut, see Linda H. Roth and Clare Le Corbeiller, French 18th Century Porcelain at the Wadsworth Atheneum, 2000, pp. 55-56 no. 27.   A similar single example, incised D.V. is in the Victoria and Albert Museum, C.1324-1919.