Use of salt cellars is documented as early as classical Rome. They continued to be used through the first half of the 20th century; however, usage began to decline with the introduction of free-flowing salt in 1911, and at last they have been almost entirely replaced by salt shakers.

Why did people use salt cellars?

Purpose. Because salt was so important throughout history, almost every culture has its own variation of a salt cellar. The main purpose of the salt cellar, other than holding the salt, was to prevent it from becoming ruined by moisture in the air.

What is a vintage salt cellar?

Salt cellars for the table come in silver, porcelain, cut glass or crystal and are usually fashioned with or without a lid. ... Glass salt cellars, known as salt dips to some collectors, can be found in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors.