salieras

Salieras are containers used to hold and dispense salt at the table or in the kitchen. The term can refer to both salt shakers, which typically have perforated caps for sprinkled salt, and salt cellars, which are open or partially covered dishes that hold salt for scooping or pinching. In many languages, the word is closely related to the idea of a salt cellar or shaker.

Design and materials vary widely. Common forms include glass, ceramic, metal (including silver and pewter), wood, and plastic. Modern salieras often feature removable caps with different hole patterns to control flow, and some incorporate built‑in grinders, pour spouts, or moisture‑reducing inserts. Salt cellars are usually shallow and may come with a lid or a small spoon, making them more of a display or serving piece than a dispensing device.

History and usage. Before enclosed shakers, many households used open salt cellars or salt boxes on the table. Enclosed salieras became popular in the 19th and 20th centuries, especially in Europe and North America, as a way to keep salt clean and deliver it more conveniently. The term saliera also refers to a famous sculpture by Benvenuto Cellini, La Saliera, a 16th‑century gold and enamel “salt cellar” that is celebrated as a masterwork of Renaissance art.

Maintenance and collecting. Keeping salieras dry helps prevent clumping and corrosion; metal pieces may require occasional polishing, while glass and ceramic should be cleaned with mild soap and water. Antique salieras are common collectible items, valued for craftsmanship and provenance.