Porringer 1785 - 1805

This porringer, a small, handled bowl, was crafted by Andrew Billings around the late 18th century. It's made of silver, a precious material that speaks to the owner's wealth, and also the silversmith's specialized skills. The bowl’s smooth, rounded form was likely achieved through hammering and shaping the metal, techniques honed over years of apprenticeship. Notice the intricate openwork handle, created by carefully piercing and filing the silver. This delicate detail adds a touch of luxury to a humble, functional object. The making of this porringer reflects a complex economy. Mining and refining silver was an industry of its own. Billings, as a silversmith, was part of a network of artisans who transformed raw materials into valuable goods for a growing consumer market. The level of skill and labor invested in this object elevates it beyond mere utility, blurring the lines between craft and art.