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Hi - These two George II cauldron salts I have identified as Edward Wood working from London in 1742. Firstly hope that correct and secondly any info about Mr Wood appreciated, especially if there was any relation to Samuel Wood whose casters collectors so cherish. - Regards Frank

Hi Frank
l agree with the mark being Edward Woods 4th mark entered 30th September 1740, he was apprenticed to James Roode 6th July 1715, free 2nd August 1722 he dies in 1752, it appears that his master specialised in salt-cellars and Wood was the same having produced little else, and it is noted that he probaly made the most salt-cellars in 18th Century London. lt is also noted that he was the master of David Hennell (1st) in 1728.
l cannot find any link with him and Samuel Wood.
Regards
Nigel

Hi Nigel - many thanks for the info and sorry missed the s in Woods so it's unlikely there's any relationship with the great Samuel Wood. Must admit it seems almost incredible that you could spend you entire career making just salt pots, but I suppose if you have the tools and the skills - and there's a ready market - why not. Afterall a cynic could say of me that I spent my entire career making bird cage liners - I work in newspapers - and yet Mr Woods salts remain some 270 years later - my scribblings, unlikely. Much appreciated frank