Salt
The seated female figure with her ankle on her knee may represent Venus (Aphrodite), born of the sea and thus a suitable adornment for a receptacle designed to hold salt, although the present example was meant solely for display. The goddess was frequently depicted in this pose, either bathing or removing a thorn from her foot. The other niches contain a hoofed, hairy figure, possibly a satyr, and a putto holding the arms of France.
Artwork Details
- Title: Salt
- Date: mid-16th century
- Culture: French, Saint-Porchaire or Paris
- Medium: Lead-glazed earthenware inlaid with slip, with molded ornament
- Dimensions: Height: 6 7/8 in. (17.5 cm)
- Classification: Ceramics-Pottery
- Credit Line: Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917
- Object Number: 17.190.1744
- Curatorial Department: European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
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French, Saint-Porchaire or Paris
ca. 1550
French, Paris
1532–33
Bernard Palissy
last quarter 16th century
French, Saint-Porchaire or Paris
mid-16th century
French, Saint-Porchaire or Paris
ca. 1550–55, with later restorations
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