Salt 1830 - 1840

This ornate 'Salt' cellar was crafted in silver by Andrew Ellicott Warner, sometime in the 19th century. Its small size belies a wealth of detail, inviting close scrutiny. The piece employs a tripartite structure: the bowl, adorned with delicate floral repoussé work, sits atop scrolling legs that resolve into decorative feet. The bowl's edge, with its scalloped and textured rim, presents a tactile contrast to the smooth interior, hinting at the preciousness of the contents it once held. The use of silver is not merely material; it speaks to the cultural codes of luxury and status. Each carefully rendered petal and curve catches the light, animating the surface and transforming a utilitarian object into a miniature sculpture. Consider how this piece functions aesthetically and as a marker of social identity, reflecting broader cultural values of refinement and display.