This stunning book is a must-have for all collectors of open salt cellars, featuring in-depth coverage of examples made with American and English art glass, English and French cameo glass, clear and colored pressed glass, figural French faïence, Russian enamels, porcelain, figural silver, and more. There are 941 full color plates showcasing over 3,500 open salts, many previously undocumented. These beautiful pieces were used before salt was processed to flow freely from a shaker. They sometimes held a block of salt which was chopped at with knives; other times they were used with diminutive salt spoons. The open salt became such an important part of fine dining that it remained in use even after the successful adaptation of salt to shakers.The wonderful assortment shown here ranges from eighteenth century Chinese export porcelain to examples made in the 1990s. The authors provide examples in all price ranges and media--some even made from shell, bone, and wood. Steuben, Tiffany, Pairpoint, Moser, Royal Bayreuth, Noritake, Daum Nancy, Meissen, Wedgwood, and Royal Doulton are just a few of the manufacturers represented. Captions provide dimensions, approximate dates of production, marks, values and various production techniques. Each salt is also classified by rarity. This is a comprehensive reference you'll turn to again and again!