Nutcrackers have been used for 100s of years. The victorians decided to make the silver plated versions as they liked everything to look expensive and over the top. Fruits and nuts were often served, during the Victorian times, as dessert. The nutcrackers were bought out at this time in the meal for eating the nuts - this also provided the diners with entertainment.
 
This is a Walker and Hall silver plated cased set of nutcrackers and picks.
 
In very good condition.