Salt Cellar

Date1771-1772

Probably by Samuel Meriton

MediumSilver

DimensionsH: 1 3/4"; Diam (rim) 2 1/2"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1964-499,4

DescriptionSalt Cellar: One of a set of tri-footed silver salt cellars; the pot shaped raised bowl flairs at the top in a scalloped edge; applied cast legs are evenly spaced and designed in a cabriole shape with simplified shell knees and pad feet.
Label TextThese salts of standard tripod type descended in the Burwell family of Virginia and are believed to have been originally owned by Nathaniel Burwell (1750-1814) of Carter's Grove, James City County. London tripod salts of 1739/40 and of 1754/55 with histories of Virginia ownership in the Nelson family of Yorktown and the Belches family of Surry County are known.
InscribedNone
MarkingsMaker's initials "W.S." (possibly for William Sheen, ca. 1755) in a rectangle located on center bottom of one of the bowls; date letter on one of the salts is possibly "Q" for 1771-1772.
ProvenanceEx Coll: George H. Burwell III, Millwood, Virginia