Antiques
Set of 3 Sterling Silver Salt Spoons
- Item Number
- 11551
- Estimated Value
- 30 USD
- Sold
- 38 USD to rjmr
- Number of Bids
- 10 - Bid History
Item Description
These salt spoons are made of sterling silver (engraved "sterling, pat. 60" on spoon) and feature flower detailing in the neck of the spoon, as well as a decorative "H" crest at the tip of the spoons. Each spoon has 3 small symbols on the back - a lion, anchor, and one other symbol. The set includes two smaller salt spoons which are 3 1/2" long and one larger spoon which measures 5" long.
A salt spoon is a miniature utensil used with an open salt cellar for individual service. It is a historical and nostalgic item from a time before table salt was free-flowing, as it is today. Salt absorbs moisture from its surroundings, and had a tendency to clump together into one large lump. The head of the household usually presided over the distribution of salt at the dining table. The food was either dipped into the small individual salt cellars or was scooped out with the small salt spoons and sprinkled over the food.
In the early 1930s, a process was developed which literally coats each grain of salt and keeps it from sticking together. Due to these changes in the processing of salt for consumer use, the open salt cellar and its accompanying salt spoon have become largely obsolete, having been replaced by the everyday salt shakers. They are, however, a highly collectable item and are still used today as a bit of nostalgia on many dining tables.
Item Special Note
This item is available for in-person preview at the CCC's Wine & Cheese Online Auction Preview from 4:30-6:30pm on March 18, at 778 Main Street, South Portland, Maine.
Shipping of item, if needed, is not included in bid price.
Donated By:
Bev Sowerby
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