Identify pewter mermaid salt(?) cellar marked F43

Collecting mermaids I recently bought this mermaid salt(?) cellar marked F43.
I have no expertise what so ever on pewter but since it is considerably damaged it was cheap enough not to have regrets in case it is a reproduction.

Would it be possible give some details?
Like the meaning of the F43 mark.
From what period, country, maker,... it is.
Size is about 10 cm high, 10 cm long, 5 cm wide.

Thanks very much to be of help.

I would guess at french c1900.
The number will be a shape code.
It could be a "moutardier", for mustard rather than salt,
which might eat away at the metal.

It may be Spelter, rather than pewter, which is lighter,
more brittle, hence the damage, and has a ring to it.

Thanks very much for your reply. Much appreciated.