AND OBJECTS OF VERTU
salt throne - Russia
the covered salt-cellar in the shape of a throne with a swivelling seat containing salt is a typical of
Russian silversmithing . This silver throne was made in Tsarist Russia, has essayer mark A.P. for year 1885, City of Moscow (St.George on horse), 84 purity mark and silversmith initials IAS, Svetschnikov Ivan Aleksejewitsch 1866 - 1897, known maker of "solonkas" = salt throne (courtesy Werner Lack). Unit of measure for Russian silver was called "zolotnik", and 84 means that the throne has a silver degree of 875/1000,
It has a slightly flared square base with scalloped foot decorated on all four sides with engraved geometric designs.The pierced back of the chair is lightly engraved on the front, which is hidden when the lid is up, but features more elaborate traditional Russian designs engraved into the back. A circular motif enclosing an image of a rooster is engraved on the interior of the lid. The salt throne has gilded interior to prevent salt corrosion, a rich floral engraving and a Russian inscription on the swiveling lid. The inscription may be interpreted (possibly) as PIXTO (prononciation p - i -kh - t - o), the Siberian spirit of forest.
The salt-cellar measures 2 1/2 in. (cm. 6) in highness and is 2 1/4" wide (cm. 5,5). It was bought from a US dealer through the Internet.
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