Set of Six Teaspoons c. 18th century

Editor: Here we have a set of six teaspoons by Saunders Pitman. They’re undated but Pitman lived 1732 to 1804. They seem so simple, yet elegant. What can you tell me about how they were made, and who would have used them? Curator: It's interesting to consider these spoons as products of their time. Think about the silver itself. Where did it come from? Who mined it? The spoons represent a whole system of labor and trade. Editor: That's a good point; I hadn't considered that aspect of it. Curator: And consider the silversmithing process itself. It's a craft. How does that elevate or diminish their societal function as tableware? Editor: This gives me a new appreciation for everyday objects. Thank you! Curator: Indeed! Everyday objects are a lens through which we can see greater production and class dynamics.