PAIR OF SILVER SALT CELLARS IN THE FORM OF THRONES RUSSIA, MOSCOW, 1869

A pair of silver salt cellars fashioned as miniature thrones represents a characteristic example of Russian decorative silver of the second half of the nineteenth century. The architectural composition is conceived as a reduced ceremonial furniture form in which the utilitarian function is combined with a decorative and symbolic concept.

The bodies are set on stepped bases with shaped plinths decorated with engraved vegetal ornament. The salt cellars feature similar decorative engraving, executed with a burin, with slight variations between them. The sides are embellished with fine linear engraving of floral motifs and ornamental bands, forming a clear ornamental structure and emphasizing the architectural plasticity of the form.

The backs are designed as decorative panels with openwork cut-outs and central circular medallions with vegetal ornament. On the reverse of each salt cellar is an engraved medallion depicting a rooster.

The seat is made as a hinged lid on which the proverb “Without salt and bread, half the dinner is lost” is engraved within an ornamental frame. The interior surfaces of the salt cellars are gilded.

Salt cellars in the form of miniature thrones became popular in Russian silver of the nineteenth century as decorative elements of festive table settings. They symbolized the place of honor at the table and reflected the traditions of Russian hospitality, while also serving as elegant ornaments of the ceremonial table.

Marks: Moscow assay mark with the image of St. George slaying the dragon; date “1869”; silver standard “84”; maker’s mark “AR” – Alexei Romanov, a Moscow silversmith active in the second half of the nineteenth century.

Dimensions: Height: 8 cm; width: 6 cm.

Weight: Approx. 78 g each; total weight: 157 g.

Condition: Good. Minor traces of age and use, without deformations.