Walk into any dining room in America and chances are that you will find the humble salt and pepper shakers sitting on the table or counter. They come in all shapes and sizes, and are a popular gift during weddings. No home would truly be complete without these little dispensers.
These containers, as their name suggest, allow diners to dispense small amounts of spices during mealtime or when cooking. They are usually placed side by side near other condiments, either on the table itself or in a cruet stand (a small stand specially made for condiments).
They are made from different kinds of materials including metal, wood, glass and plastic, although the most popular ones are ceramic. They are sold together as a set, and are adorned differently to add an aesthetically pleasing touch. The traditional dispensers had the words salt or pepper written on their sides. Over the years, some manufacturers only added an S or a P. Very soon it was common to find them without any markings, and their only distinguishing features were their different color or the number of holes on the top.
Because most sets come in different styles, collecting these small containers has become a popular hobby. The artistry involved usually plays around the fact that there are only two items being decorated. Thus it is common to find themes playing with the couple theme (man and woman, black and white, etc).
Prior to modern production methods, burr mills and grinders were used because the spices actually came in as large pieces of rocks. Over time, it was possible to deliver these goods as fine powders, and with the advent of modern ceramics in the nineteen forties, the modern dispensers were born.
Whether you're purchasing a set for your own dining room, or you're just starting your collection, salt and pepper shakers have earned their place as indispensable items of the modern kitchen.
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