{HISTORY}

Like little boats swimming around the table, these tiny porcelain dishes were originally made to hold salt at individual place settings. Dainty and delicate, these six were made by Noritake in Japan between 1911 and 1921.

Hand-painted, each one features bouquets of pink and blue flowers connected by gold bands and a striped rim accented by gold dots. Once part of a complete and matching dinnerware set in the same pattern, these dishes in this boat-like shape are harder to find these days, especially in this condition.  In absolutely gorgeous antique shape, these six look like they may have never left the china cabinet, which means they are destined for a little adventure in their lives nowadays. As bright and as beautifully detailed as the day they left the pottery over 100 years ago, they are the epitome of Noritake's revered reputation. 

It's always very fun to trace the history of vintage and antique Noritake pieces because their backstamps and pottery marks have changed so much over the course of two centuries as the company evolved into a worldwide brand. This set features the laurel wreath mark with the M in the middle, which stands for the Morimura Brothers who originally started the pottery in 1889. Back then it when it was simply referred to as Nippon - the name of the region where the dishes were made. 

Since those early days, artisans working with the Morimura Brothers (and then Noritake) have always focused on fine craftsmanship, gorgeous color arrangements, and exquisite designs. That attention to detail and level of commitment led Noritake to become one of the most celebrated and sought-after dishware brands in the world, and they are still, to this day, internationally recognized for quality and luxury. 

{SPECIAL FEATURES}

 - Matching set of six

 - Colors include pale pink, pastel blue, sage, gold, and bright white

- Each salt cellar is stamped on the bottom with the maker's mark 

{CONDITION}

In beautiful antique condition, these dishes contain no chips, cracks or stains. One dish contains a black dot no bigger than the size of a pencil point. This is a natural mark that is found in the clay and is not a manufacturing flaw or a stain. Please see photos.

{SIZE}

Each salt cellar measures 3.75" inches (length) x 2.25" inches (width) x .5" inches (height) and weighs 1/2 oz. 

{IDEAS FOR THE TABLE}

In addition to serving salt, these little dishes also make great place card holders, spice dishes, teabag holders, chopstick rests and condiment dishes. We especilaly love dishes of this size for kitchen prep for herbs, spices and small measurements.