Tea urn c. 1790

This tea urn, housed at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, is of unknown make. The silver material has been expertly crafted, showcasing a symmetrical composition and a high level of detail. The urn's form is primarily geometric, featuring an octagonal body that tapers down to a square base. Vertical lines are etched along the sides, creating a sense of order and structure, contrasted by the curved handles. At the front, a spigot with a wooden handle breaks the metallic uniformity, adding a textural element. The urn’s structure plays with the concepts of containment and accessibility. The interplay between the rigid geometric shapes and subtle curves creates an object that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. It encourages one to consider the cultural codes embedded in such a vessel and its place within broader discussions of art.