Salt Cellar
Date1905
Mediumsterling silver
Dimensions1 3/4 × 3 × 2 inches (4.4 × 7.6 × 5.1 cm)
Markingshallmarks on the side: JR [in framed oval]; Sheffield crown; lion passant; n [cut corner square]
Credit LineGift of Frank A. Rizza, M.D. and family.
Object number2012.15.119.a-.b
CopyrightThe images and text contained on this page are owned by Telfair Museums or used by the Museum with permission from the owners. Unauthorized reproduction, transmission or display of these materials is prohibited with the exception of items deemed “fair use” as defined by U.S. and international copyright laws.Label TextThis pierced sterling silver salt cellar has a cobalt blue glass liner and four ball-and-claw feet.
Lumps of salt needed to be broken up prior to being sprinkled on food at the table. Use of salt cellars is documented as early as classical Rome, and remained in use at the dining table until the advent of free-flowing salt in the early 20th century. Salt shakers then came to be widely used instead.