Pair Sterling Silver Sampan Boat Salt & Pepper Shakers, Marked

A delightful pair of mid-20th-century sterling silver salt and pepper shakers modeled as Asian sampan boats or floating houseboats. Each features finely detailed craftsmanship with paneled cabin windows, sloped roofs, and wave-chased bases suggesting motion over water. Both are marked “STERLING” beneath, confirming solid .925 silver composition, and together weigh 62.94 grams. 

Comparable examples attributed to Japanese or Chinese export workshops have appeared on the collector market, often marked “.950” or “STERLING,” and are prized for their artistry and cultural flair. The sampan motif reflects maritime heritage and East-Asian design sensibilities, making these shakers not only functional but also decorative—an appealing choice for collectors of figural silver or global design of the mid-century era.

Dimensions / Weight

Overall: 1 9/16 in. × 3 in. × 1 in.
Total weight: 62.94 g

Condition

Very good vintage condition. Surfaces show light scratches and faint tarnish consistent with age and use. Minor darkening to recesses and underside marks; no major dents, losses, or repairs observed. Caps and dispensing holes intact and functional.

A charming and uncommon pair of sterling silver novelty shakers combining craftsmanship, cultural symbolism, and collectible appeal. Their sculptural form makes them as suitable for display as for table service—an elegant reminder of the mid-century fascination with Asian design.