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Spice Box

Spice Box

Etching This spice box, of German descent, is modeled after a tower in Frankfurt. During the period when this container was made, it was common for German silversmiths to model spice boxes after Frankfurt towers. Dating from the eighteenth century, this silver piece stands about twenty centimeters tall. Its octagonal base is engraved with fish, flowers, and various foliage. The bottom of the tower has an arched tunnel that goes through two of its four sides. Above the archway is a cylindrical holder in which spices are placed. The cylinder is made of thinner silver, and has several small, symmetrically-placed holes which allow the scent of the spices to escape. Around the cylinder are four turrets. At the top of the cylinder is a much larger turret, and around it are four smaller turrets. Each of the turrets has a flag waving above it. The flags are curved and shaped to look like they are blowing in the wind. They are not rigid and can be moved from side to side.

Spice Box
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