Tray 1741 - 1742

This silver tray was crafted by Paul de Lamerie, a master silversmith working in 18th-century London. The object reflects the period’s burgeoning consumer culture and the rise of a wealthy merchant class eager to display its status. De Lamerie was known for his rococo style, characterized by elaborate ornamentation and asymmetry, seen here in the tray’s ornate borders and asymmetrical cartouches. The inclusion of a coat of arms at the center also speaks to the importance of lineage and social standing. But beyond its aesthetic appeal, the tray also highlights the networks of trade and empire that fueled England’s economic expansion. Silver was often sourced from colonies abroad, and the finished products were symbols of wealth accumulated through global commerce. To fully understand this tray, we delve into the archives, exploring trade records, genealogical charts, and period inventories. By doing so, we reveal not just the beauty of the object but the complex social and economic forces that shaped its creation.