Pair of andirons 1697 - 1698

Editor: We're looking at a Pair of Andirons, made of silver around 1697-1698 by Benjamin Pyne. They're currently held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. I am really struck by the intense ornamentation, so elaborate! What catches your eye when you examine these pieces? Curator: The baroque exuberance is certainly evident. The emphasis, however, should be placed on how effectively the silver is manipulated. Notice the balance of the vertical thrust of the urn-shaped bodies against the horizontal spread of the scrolling feet. Do you see how the play of light across the surfaces contributes to a sense of dynamic movement? Editor: Yes, I see what you mean! It's not just surface decoration. The light really emphasizes the curves and the overall structure. But aren't the decorative elements important too, within this structure? Curator: Undeniably. Observe how the various textures – the smooth expanses of the base contrasted with the detailed chasing on the urns – create visual interest. The meticulous execution elevates these functional objects into works of art. The ornament is not merely applied; it’s integral to the overall composition. Editor: So, it’s the *way* the ornamentation works *within* the formal elements that gives the Andirons their artistic value. That's fascinating, I was getting too hung up on whether it was all too fussy and missing how all this ornament works with the whole to become Baroque sculpture! Curator: Exactly. Form follows function, yes, but within that constraint we observe mastery in execution that is delightful to explore, visually, and mentally.