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I'd be grateful if any of you experts out there would be kind enough to translate/interpret the unusual mark on the underside of this Chinese salt cellar.
At first glance, I initially thought that it could be an 18th century export piece. However, the unusual markings on the underside - even to my untrained amateur eye - suggests that the piece is a later, but nevertheless attractive reproduction.
Furthermore, the apparent lack of wear to the design and gilding seems to support this view.

Perhaps the mark is pseudo-Chinese(?)for the purpose of increasing 'saleability' to tourists ?
Any comments or suggestions would be very welcome !

Your item has a circa 1875 or later mark of Samson & Company, Paris, which was in business from 1873 to about 1957. The mark could be later, because it varies slightly from the early version shown in my old copy of 'Kovel's Dictionary of Marks'. Here's a Photoshopped detail of your picture, showing the correct viewing position of this mark.

Best regards,

Bill H.

Thank you for your comments, Bill. Much obliged !!


Regards,

Peter

Your dish(not a salt dish) was made in Paris in the 2nd half of the 19th century. Most likely a Samson product in the style of earlier Chinese export wares. The pseudo hallmark is of that ilk.

Thank you for your assistance once again - much appreciated !
Shame it's not the real McCoy !

Peter

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