New photography by Shannon Ruff captured with a digital camera-2006.

Washington and Lafayette Salt

Manufacturer New England Glass Company (American, 1818 - 1888)

CultureAmerican

Dateca. 1827-1835

MediumPressed lead-formula glass

DimensionsOverall: 1 15/16 in. (4.9 cm)
Overall, Rim: 2 1/8 x 3 in. (5.4 x 7.6 cm)

Credit LineGift of Walter P. Chrysler, Jr.

Object number71.3776

On View

Chrysler Museum of Art, MMH, Dining Room

DescriptionSalt of clear heavy glass. Rectangular shape. "Washington-Lafayette" with their profile medallions. One on each side. Leaf and berries on the bottom. Neal HL2 pattern, "ext. rare."

Label TextAmerican Probably New England Area Washington and Lafayette Salt, 1827-1835 Pressed lead-formula glass Gift of Walter P. Chrysler, Jr. 71.3776 This salt dish featuring an oval portrait of Washington on one side and Lafayette on the other was undoubtedly a product of the Lafayette mania that gripped the United States in the 1820s. When Lafayette made his 1824/1825 progress around the country as "The Nation's Guest," he was greeted in many cities and towns with triumphal arches that sported his portrait beside Washington's. This salt may have been inspired by English transfer printed ceramics that featured oval portraits of the two heroes. Exhibition History"First in the Hearts of His Countrymen: America Remembers George Washington 1732-1799," Chrysler Museum of Art, Nov. 23, 1999 - Summer 2001. Published ReferencesBourne Auction Catalog, No. 102, ill. pg. 15. L.W. & D.B. Neal, _Pressed Glass Salt Dishes of the Lacy Period, 1825-1850_, (Philadelphia: Published by the authors, 1962), 118, No. HL2.