Tabakskomfoor op houten blad. De binnenbak van koper hangt in een open frame van zilver dat met drie poten op het blad rust. 1783

Curator: At first glance, I see refinement. The sheen of the silver against the matte wood base...it's quite striking, isn't it? Editor: It is. Let's take a closer look at this object. We have here what is known as a tobacco stove or 'tabakskomfoor,' created by Martinus van Stapele in 1783. The piece combines various materials—silver, copper, and wood. The copper inner bowl sits within an open silver frame that stands on a wooden base. Curator: The silverwork is exquisite, really. Notice the delicate garlands and the beadwork along the rim. Baroque, isn't it? The piece has such graceful lines. I think the choice of such luxurious materials is interesting considering the purpose: heating tobacco. What does it tell us about societal norms and the ritual surrounding tobacco consumption at the time? Editor: Indeed, and thinking about labor practices informs that societal reading too. The fact that something this elaborate existed points to not just wealth but available time. Also the layers of skill it reflects; mining the metals, craftsmanship of the metals and woodworking involved. Were these different people and if so, what did the different parts of the whole receive in remuneration and other rewards? Curator: Precisely. The layering is so crucial here. Form follows the ritual use as the container's graceful arc would perfectly nestle into a gentleman’s hands. Did the design allow heat to be effectively insulated or well dispersed? Editor: Exactly! A question also about this artifact's purpose in 18th century trade as well. How did it shape global commerce? It could represent comfort for a consumer class profiting on resources pulled from afar by forced labour; or at least it may have that direct relationship to wealth created from unequal social order. It also might point us toward thinking about Dutch social life and networks. Curator: Very insightful points. Considering it again, this small, beautiful object suddenly feels much weightier, doesn't it? Editor: Yes, quite. We can really dig into how decorative art intersects with society.