This is a mid-late 1800s "reproduction" of the salt boxes of the 1700s. I've owned and sold several of the early ones. A lot of dealers try to sell these later carved French salt cabinets as c.1700s, not correctly identifying the age. They're still antiques, mind you, but the price for these 19th century ones are quite a bit lower, as is value. I just looked at a 1900s salt box on ebay yesterday that is offered as a 1700s one and priced double what it's value is. Still, less than a 1700s one, but double what it should be. Makes me worry about the customer! We know antiques, and we don't pass-off later goods for earlier museum pieces. That said, this is a charming old one with both the sliding compartment for a bag of salt, and the appearance, at least, of a drawer, though it's just for looks. The glass knob is a lovely feature. Why a salt box? You know that before refrigeration, a relatively modern invention, meats and fish were cured for longer storage by salting them and drying the meat. Salt was a staple in society, and has such an interesting history. But I digress (I'm prone to telling the stories, aren't I). The Country French decor just begs to have a salt box/cabinet in the kitchen, either standing or hung on a wall. This will be a perfect one for someone. These are difficult to find, also. There are 20th century "fakes" on the market, too, and I suppose they'll eventually be antiques. I found this one and another slightly older from an estate in France. I'll be listing the other one pictured with this one in that final photo today, also. They're offered separately.
Very good to excellent condition for age and type. The cabinet is nice and large at 18.5" tall. Full measurements are noted on the photos for your review. The door panel in front slides up and out. The interior is also pretty, as you can see. Beautiful old wood. Glass knob is without damage and is also antique and original to this cabinet. I'd date it to c.1880-1900.
