Where Is Salt Cellar? See It at Art Institute of Chicago

Q: Where can I see it?

At the Art Institute of Chicago in Illinois. It's part of the Mr. and Mrs. Martin A. Ryerson Collection.

This ivory salt cellar dates to around 1625 and belongs to the Afro-Portuguese tradition, a fascinating chapter in art history where West African carvers created luxury objects for European buyers. Portuguese traders commissioned these pieces from guild carvers in the Kingdom of Benin (modern Nigeria), who adapted their court ivory techniques to European functional forms. Salt was expensive in Europe, and ornate salt cellars were status symbols at aristocratic dining tables.

Only six or seven master carvers in a hereditary, male-only guild produced these objects, with permission from the oba (king). Ivory, called "white gold," was prized for its smooth texture and ability to hold fine detail. These salt cellars represent the first documented African artworks made specifically for export. The piece is part of the collection at the Art Institute of Chicago, where it sits alongside other examples of cross-cultural exchange in the decorative arts.

Portuguese traders commissioned them starting in the 16th century. Salt was precious in Europe, and carved ivory salt cellars were luxury status symbols. The oba (king) of Benin permitted his guild carvers to fill these orders, creating a unique cross-cultural art trade.

Only six or seven men in a hereditary, male-only guild of ivory carvers. These artisans normally produced works exclusively for the royal court. The oba gave special permission for them to create salt cellars, spoons, and hunting horns for Portuguese visitors.

Ivory held fine detail, had a smooth luminous texture, and was extremely rare and expensive. Europeans called it "white gold." The material's prestige made it the perfect medium for objects given as courtship gifts or displayed at aristocratic tables.

At the Art Institute of Chicago in Illinois. It's part of the Mr. and Mrs. Martin A. Ryerson Collection.

Salt Cellar

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