A marvel of exquisite craftsmanship, this small, gold-mounted
rock-crystal salt cellar, which rests on a high, knopped stem
above a tapered, conical base, is a rare example of Early Gothic
goldsmiths' work. The crystal salt cellar is meticulously carved
with a pointed prow, a flat yet sloping stern, a keel that is
rectangular in profile, and simple notching for the double
oarlocks. Three interconnected hollows in the interior are
arranged symmetrically along the boat's axis. The upper surface
of the rim of the vessel is decorated with seed pearls, and
emeralds; below is a border of tiny ivy leaves. One-fourth of
the hinged lid can be lifted by means of a tiny handle in the
form of a serpent. The gems and pearls in combination with the
serpent probably had an apotropaic meaning, as serpents' tongues
were thought to warn against poison by breaking out into a
sweat.The form of The Cloisters' object recalls that of two
reliquaries of the Holy Thorn, preserved in the Treasury of
Saint-Maurice d'Agaune in Switzerla