More throne than bench, this 19th century walnut salt box chair carries one of the more charming stories in French furniture! Salt box benches appeared in France during the time of the “gabelle,” when salt was taxed so heavily it became nearly as precious as gold. Many homes kept a hidden compartment inside a simple looking chair placed near the fireplace. When the tax collector arrived, the grandmother of the house would calmly sit on the bench, cleverly concealing the family’s extra salt since asking her to move would have been far too rude. This example is beautifully built in walnut with a tall, commanding back that gives it a throne like presence while the interior compartment still offers storage. Sylvie loves it as an unexpected side table or entryway piece with a story built right in.
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