Salt cellar

Peru

c. 1620

Silver gilt

Minneapolis Institute of Art

This salt cellar is a refined example of early colonial Peruvian silversmithing, datable to the first decades of the 17th century. At a time when salt was a valuable commodity, its presentation at table signaled status and sophistication. Its design reflects lingering Mannerist influences, combining geometric clarity and architectural structure derived from the Renaissance with richly articulated scrollwork and geometric ornamental detail. <p align=LEFT dir=LTR> The present salt cellar was part of the treasure recovered from the <i>Nuestra Senora de Atocha</i> galleon, which sank in a hurricane off the Florida Keys in 1622. Built in