Artwork Page for Saltcellar

Details / Information for Saltcellar

Saltcellar

c. 1570–90

circle of the Patanazzi Family

(Italian)
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Culture
Italy, Urbino, 16th century
Medium
tin-glazed earthenware (maiolica)
Measurements
Overall: 20.3 x 21 x 12.8 cm (8 x 8 1/4 x 5 1/16 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Philip R. Mather 1945.126.1
Public Domain
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Location
118 Italian Renaissance
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Did You Know?

During the Renaissance, salt was an expensive commodity and was used to both season and preserve food.

Description

During the Italian Renaissance of the 1400s and 1500s, nobles and merchants eager to express their wealth and sophistication ordered ceramics for dining, display, and storage. Known as maiolica, because it resembled the brightly colored ceramics from the Mediterranean island of Majorca, these ceramic vessels were covered with a tin glaze that provided an opaque white surface on which colorful decoration could be painted.
A tin-glazed earthenware vessel features a bulbous bowl resting on a tiered, architectural base. Two nude child figures sit perched on the rim, facing outward while holding shell-shaped dishes. A prominent bearded mask with an open mouth projects from the center. Vibrant blue, green, and yellow glazes articulate relief patterns of garlands and sea life. The glossy surface highlights the complex sculptural details, creating an ornate silhouette of figurative and decorative forms.

Saltcellar

c. 1570–90

the Patanazzi Family

(Italian)
Italy, Urbino, 16th century

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