Miniature saltcellar 1687 - 1688

Curator: Hello. We are standing before a delightful little object: a miniature silver saltcellar dating from around 1687 to 1688. It's part of the decorative arts collection. Editor: Tiny! And oddly austere. You know, it has this quiet formality to it. Like a stern, silent butler offering... seasoning? Curator: That's a lovely observation. These small vessels held salt, a highly valued commodity at the time. Its presence on the table was a symbol of status and refinement. The material—silver—only adds to that significance. Editor: Refinement... So it's less about function, more about a sort of visual language of power. Was this the kind of thing displayed, paraded about almost, to say "look at me, I have seasoned food!" Curator: Precisely. Think about the context: the elaborate meals of the late 17th century, the carefully orchestrated displays of wealth and taste. Even the geometrical precision—those crisp facets— speaks to an era obsessed with order. Editor: You are right. In my minds eye I imagine gleaming silverware and elaborate plates. I guess in the end is not *that* different than flaunting luxury objects today, but at least this has utility. Do you think its preciousness increased, inversely proportionally, with the level of food scarcity at that time? Curator: No doubts about that! I can almost taste the revolution coming at it. Looking at the saltcellar closely allows a peek into social history. This small silver object reflects complex relations, economic power, and aspirations from past social configurations. Editor: Fascinating. Such a seemingly simple thing opens a whole world of understanding about a bygone era, doesn't it? Curator: Exactly! I appreciate your impressions on the materiality of it. This exercise always confirms the relevance and value of studying all types of pieces, including what seems more simple.