SILVER SALT CELLAR “CHAIR” RUSSIA, MOSCOW, 1896–1908

An elegant silver salt cellar of rare form, executed as a miniature chair with a hinged lid, represents a distinctive example of Moscow artistic silver from the late 19th to early 20th century, created within the aesthetic of National Romanticism. The composition derives from the forms of traditional Russian wooden architecture and reflects the period’s fascination with folk traditions and decorative motifs.

The high shaped back with a keel-like finial and openwork aperture is stylised after architectural elements of peasant houses and carved window frames. The sculptural conception combines architectural clarity with rich decorative articulation, characteristic of Moscow workshops of this period.

The surface is decorated with fine engraving and chased ornament imitating wood carving. The decorative programme includes geometric and stylised vegetal motifs, as well as a characteristic scale pattern that creates a vivid play of light. The contrast between the richly ornamented back and the more restrained body enhances the artistic unity of the object.

The hinged lid is engraved with the inscription: “BREAD AND SALT”, reinforcing the symbolic meaning of the piece associated with Russian traditions of hospitality and ritual culture.

Marks: Maker’s mark “A.K” (unidentified master) in a rectangular cartouche; Russian state assay mark with kokoshnik facing right and standard “84”; assay district letter “α” (Moscow assay district), 1896–1908.
Dimensions: Height: 10.5 cm; width: 5.5 cm; depth: 3 cm.
Weight: 59 g.
Condition: Good. Minor signs of use and light surface wear, no deformations or losses.