A Pair of Victorian Silver "Carmen" Figural Double Salts, Hancock's, London, 1866

each modeled as a matador and guitar player in Spanish dress, flanked by baskets with gilt interiors on rocky bases

Rare Art London, 1994

baskets with some salt stains to interiors, overall very good condition
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The figures of a matador and a soldier with a guitar correspond to the two male leads in Bizet's Carmen, Escamillo and Don José.  The traditional Spanish soldier's costume, with its breeches, fringed sash, and hat with rosette, can be seen in period lithographs of the first productions of the opera in 1875.  As these salts date from the previous decade, they are probably based on the characters as depicted in Prosper Mérimée's original novel of 1845.