Two bottle coolers 1766

Zacharias Deichman the Elder crafted these silver bottle coolers in the 18th century, objects that speak volumes about social rituals and status. Bottle coolers weren't just functional; they were symbols of wealth and refinement, reflecting the rise of consumer culture and the importance of social display. In countries like 18th century Germany where Deichman lived, dining became an elaborate performance, a way to assert one’s position in society through lavishness and attention to detail. Silverware like this signalled membership of a particular social class. Historians explore inventories and domestic advice manuals to understand how objects like these functioned within the home and the values they embodied. By examining the material culture of the past, we gain insight into the social structures and daily lives of those who commissioned and used these beautiful objects.