This pedestal salt with its turned down rim and lion mask fittings on each side is a rare form in Masons Ironstone.  The "Elephant Foot" pattern provides a rich overlay of gilt scrollwork, set in vivid contrast to the solid cobalt ground. The execution of the pattern, which can be somewhat slapdash on some Masons pieces, is executed here with an unusual care and refinement in keeping with the elegance of the shape.  In the midst of this scrollwork, gilded lions mask fittings on each side approximate handles in miniature. The boot-shape or "elephant foot" reserves that give the pattern its nickname are reduced to ovals in order to fit this squatty shape. Still, they reveal  the same wonderful exotic world -- birds and mammals executed free-hand in contrasting brilliant orange enamel.   Appropriately, a heavy band of gilt finishes the piece on the edges of the rim and foot. 

Over the years, Seekers has offered only one other Masons master salt. The current example offers two points of desirability to collectors --  the rarity of the master salt form and the prestige of the much sought-after "Elephant Foot" pattern.