Possessions

I grew up in Cornwall which was then, and is now, a place of great artistic energy. My mother collected pottery - jugs, bowls, pots and mugs - made by the pupils of Bernard Leach. They were wonderful, strong, utilitarian objects in deep earthy colours and warm glazes.

Very few of them survived the rough and tumble of our family life because pottery is more vulnerable than china.


I do not have many pieces of pottery but I think it is fitting that this, my salt pot, is a link to that past. I have had it all my married life and every pot of potatoes, pasta or rice has been seasoned with salt from the little spoon.


I love the simple shape and shades of colour. It fits into the curve of my hand. The handle of the little spoon has the patina of use. It is too big for the pot and so the lid is permanently at an angle. It sits on a shelf in my kitchen, a constant companion to my cooking.