Salt CellarBenvenuto Cellini · 1540

The Saliera: A Masterpiece of Mannerist Goldwork

The Salt Cellar, also known as the Saliera, is a sumptuous gold, enamel, and ebony sculpture created by Benvenuto Cellini. Completed between 1540 and 1543, this work was commissioned by Francis I of France. The piece is characterized by its intricate detail and dynamic figures, serving as a premier example of Mannerist style. The sculpture is composed of hand-hammered gold, meticulous enamel application, and ebony inlay.

The artwork features two central figures: a man representing the sea and a woman representing the earth. The male figure, identified as Neptune, is depicted with a trident and accompanied by a ship, sea horses, fish, and shells. The female figure, representing Tellus, sits opposite him. The base of the sculpture depicts the winds, the times of day, and human activities. The object is designed with bearings to allow it to roll on a banquet table.

Physical Composition and Provenance

The material composition of the Salt Cellar includes:

The sculpture was originally commissioned for the French court and later passed from Charles IX to Archduke Ferdinand II. It is currently held at the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna. The work is notable for its survival through history, having been famously stolen in 2003 and recovered in 2006.