Object 33 : 1

Notice

This zoomorphic salt box represents a hen with its feathers carved in some detail. The box has a pivoting lid, on which features Christ’s monogram (IHS) surmounted with a cross; these decorations are complemented by a geometric motif and a lentil-shaped sun. These elements suggest that the box was mainly used as a container for salt for magic—especially divinatory—rites and prophylactic rites (protection against the harmful effects of the evil eye) that were widely practised until the 1960s. According to Georges Amoudruz, these boxes were initially made by one craftsman, and subsequently became a veritable regional custom.