Antique Silver topped pair of salts clear Hallmarks for David Loebl trading as Schindler & Co, fancy goods importers, Aldermanbury Avenue, London London 1908
5 cm diameter 3 cm tall 
Salt cellars have a long history, dating back to ancient Rome and used through the first half of the 20th century: 
 
Origin
Salt cellars were used in ancient Rome, where salt was sometimes used as payment for soldiers. 
 
Social status
In the Middle Ages and Renaissance, salt cellars were placed at the table in front of the most important person, emphasizing their social standing. The saying "sit behind the salt" refers to sitting in the most important place. 
 
Materials
Salt cellars were often made of silver, but could also be made from glass, ceramic, ivory, wood, or plastic. Some salt cellars were so elaborate that they included figures of humans and animals. 
 
Decline
The use of salt cellars declined with the introduction of free-flowing salt in 1911, and they have been almost entirely replaced by salt shakers. 
 
Popularity as collectibles
Salt cellars became a popular collectible after their role at the table was replaced by the salt shaker.