Salt Cellar

Date1745-1749

Artist/Maker Chelsea Porcelain Manufactory (1745-1769)

MediumSoft-paste porcelain

DimensionsH: 2 5/8"; W: 2 7/8"; L: 3"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1962-73,1

DescriptionSalt Cellar: One of a pair of salts in form of shell on open rockwork with applied shells and coral painted in overglaze enamel colors in orange, green, brown, and blue. A blue shell with green and red seaweed is painted on interior of each shell and seaweed painted in several places around edge.
Label TextThe enamel decoration on their bases, sides, and interiors make these pieces most unusual, as shell-form salts are generally found without color decoration. The shell is a simple shape in nature, easily adaptable and most acceptable for table use. Shell salts or sweetmeats were made at many of the English porcelain factories, particularly at Bow, and were also popular in earthenware and salt-glazed stoneware.
InscribedNone
MarkingsIncised triangle on exterior base.
ProvenanceEx coll: M.G. Kaufman (K32