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Salt

Salt

  • Place of origin:

    Italy (made)

  • Date:

    ca. 1530 (made)

  • Artist/Maker:

    Unknown

  • Materials and Techniques:

    Silver-gilt

  • Museum number:

    2129-1855

  • Gallery location:

    Silver, room 69, case 6

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The decoration of this exquisite salt cellar is inspired by architectural and ornamental motifs from the classical world. The bowl is supported by lion's feet. The decoration around the sides copies Greek and Roman sculptural friezes with fluidly modelled female figures dancing and playing musical instruments. The coat of arms applied to either side is not identified but was presumably that of an owner.

Physical description

Hexagonal body with hemispherical bowl on four lion's feet, cast body with figures dancing, applied crests and concentric circles inside the bowl.

Place of Origin

Italy

Date

ca. 1530 (made)

Artist/maker

Unknown

Materials and Techniques

Silver-gilt

Marks and inscriptions

"Two applied crests with pairs on hands on each"
"Unmarked, various assay scratches on base"

Dimensions

Height: 5.00 cm
Length: 8.20 cm
Width: 8.00 cm

Object history note

Purchase - Bernal Collection, £51

An early example of the use of Renaissance ornament

Labels and date

Silver Gallery:
This four-sided salt-cellar is supported by lion's feet. The decoration copies Greek and Roman sculptural friezes with female figures dancing and playing musical instruments.

Categories

Metalwork; Tableware & cutlery

Collection code

MET

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Qr_O91497
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