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Antique

Perfect Patina

One-Of-A-Kind

Wood

Historic

Primitive Salt Box Chair

France, 19th Century

$695

The story behind the salt box chair is a charming one. In 18th-century France, salt was taxed so heavily under the “gabelle” that it became nearly as precious as gold. This led to a clever household trick: a humble-looking chair with a hidden compartment by the fireplace. Each time the tax collector stopped by, the family’s grandmother would settle herself comfortably on the chair, concealing their extra salt. Asking her to move would be unthinkably rude, so the hidden stash remained safe and sound. Now, Sylvie has given this ingenious piece a new purpose, styling it as a unique side table or entryway moment.

  • Dimensions:

    31" H x 16" W x 15" D (seat height 16")

  • Materials:

    Wood

  • Weight Range:

    10 lbs

  • Notes from Sylvie:

    This is a charming little guy, but it has some wear, repairs and chips throughout. The removable piece of the seat has a crack running down the middle which has been repaired and the chair rocks diagonally. There is evidence of past worm holes in the wood.

  • Collector's Notice:

    As antique and vintage pieces, items may show signs of age and wear. Minor variations from the images may occur unless otherwise noted. All sales are final.

Long ago, in the heart of the French countryside, salt was as precious as gold—an everyday necessity made costly by a tax known as the “gabelle.” Enter the salt box chair. Imagine a clever grandmother who, refusing to part with more than she needed, came up with a plan. She stored her salt in a beautifully crafted salt box with a sturdy lid that appeared to be a chair. Whenever the tax collectors, or "gabelous," would come by, she would quietly sit on her little salt box, concealing her precious stash from their prying eyes. After all, it would have been very rude to ask her to stand up.

This charming salt box, with its hidden compartment, became a beloved trick across many households, sparking a bit of harmless mischief and keeping salt supplies safe. So when you look at this piece, picture the clever ingenuity of a beloved grandma.

Uzès, a hidden gem in the south of France is where this story begins. Situated between Provence and the Languedoc, this medieval town is known for its winding cobblestone streets, grand Renaissance architecture, and the striking Duchy of Uzès. With roots tracing back to Roman times, Uzès has been shaped by diverse cultural influences, from ancient aqueducts to aristocratic estates.

Surrounded by sprawling vineyards, ancient olive groves, and the peaceful countryside of Occitanie, Uzès is just as serene as it sounds. It is here where Sylvie put on her comfortable shoes and got lost wandering these ancient streets and its nearby villages.

Sylvie explored age-worn courtyards, connected with local antique dealers, and sifted through forgotten spaces to curate a selection that brings to life Uzès’ storied past.