A pair of early 20th-century American open salt cellars, each featuring a clear glass well of compressed circular form on a spreading foot, mounted with a sterling silver collar. The sloping silver collars are finished with a delicate beaded inner border, providing a classic neoclassical touch to the table service.

Historical & Style Details

• Subject: Pair of open salt cellars
• Maker: Stamped 'B-I' (or 'B-T')
• Period: Early 20th Century
• Origin: United States
• Materials: Sterling silver, glass
• Markings: Stamped 'B-I' (or 'B-T') over 'STERLING' on the exterior of the silver collars
• Decorative Details: Beaded inner rim on sloping silver collars, clear glass bodies with flared circular feet
• Condition: Excellent vintage condition with minor surface wear and light tarnish to the silver consistent with age and use; glass remains free of chips or cracks

History

Open salt cellars of this silver-mounted glass variety were highly popular in American dining services during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Often sold in sets, they allowed individual diners access to salt before the widespread adoption of free-flowing salt shakers containing anti-caking agents. The combination of sterling silver and pressed or blown glass was a staple of elegant tables during the Edwardian and early mid-century eras.