Silver Open Salt Cellars

A pair of Sheffield silver Salt Cellars marked with several marks. The salts are round floral-shaped with three ball feet, and date to 1902. The makers' mark - HA - may refer to either the Atkin Brothers or to Archer, Machin & Marsh, both registering an identical mark in the 1850's. It is most likely made by the Atkin Brothers since the Archer, Machin & Marsh was a relatively short-lived partnership.

The use of salt cellars is documented as early as classical Rome. During the Middle Ages, elaborate master salt cellars evolved and were placed at the head table, symbolizing status and prosperity. In addition to the master salt, smaller, simpler salt cellars were distributed for diners to share. Large, ornate master salts continued to be made through the Renaissance and Baroque periods. In the 17th century smaller individual open salts were added for use due to the discomfort of a central standing salt canister at the dining table. The advent of the Industrial Revolution in the late 18th to early 19th centuries rendered both salt and salt cellars commonplace and salt cellars with spoons were placed next to every place setting at formal dinners. Salt cellars continued to be used through the first half of the 20th century, but usage began to decline as saltshakers gained favor.

Salt Cellars varied in style, shape, and decoration, and could be lidded, open, or covered with a cloth, all according to the prevailing fashion or custom at the time.

These two beautiful vessels can be used for salt but also for honey in Rosh Hashanah.

 

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