Inseparable salt and flour boxes in walnut – 18th century – Provence – [MP025]

Inseparable salt and flour boxes in walnut – 18th century – Provence

Let’s first describe how the kitchens of yesteryear used these two pretty boxes carved from walnut, the best wood for this purpose.
When at rest they were hung up in the dry near the hearth, where the pots were smoking, so that the salt was accessible and the flour kept safe from rodents.

Note that the salt box has two storage spaces: a compartment under the top cover for coarse salt, and a bottom drawer for fine salt.
The flour box for its part must be used flat on the kitchen table, carefully opening the sliding shutter so as not to lose anything.

The flour box had to be used flat on the table, carefully opening the sliding shutter so as not to lose anything.

Let us now take a look at their particular sign; their astonishing twinness.
Their backsplashes were cut using the same template. As for their patterns, even if they ignore the principle of homothety, they are the fruit of the same inspiration, typically Provençal.
The basket and flower ornamentation was simply and logically adapted to the height of each of them.

Carved salt box in walnut with a basket and flowers, typical Provencal ornamentation.

Born together in Provence at the end of the 18th century, these two boxes, one for flour and the other for salt, are clearly paired and have never been separated since then.
It is together that they intend to continue to brave the centuries, why not in the sweetness and harmony of your home?