Sauceboat 1822 - 1825

This is a silver sauceboat made by Frederick Marquand, a prominent silversmith in 19th-century New York. The object speaks to the social rituals of dining and the display of wealth in a rapidly growing nation. In the 19th century, specialized tableware like this sauceboat reflected an increasing emphasis on etiquette and refined dining practices. Silver, with its reflective surface and precious material, was a popular choice for those who wished to communicate their elevated social standing. Marquand's business records, which are preserved in various historical archives, show a thriving market for such luxury goods among the merchant class and burgeoning elite of New York. This detailed history reveals not just the creation of beautiful objects but also the social dynamics and economic forces at play during this transformative period in American history. By studying objects like this sauceboat, alongside archival materials, we gain a more complete understanding of the past. Art historians are uniquely placed to connect the history of art to these social narratives.