Silver Tazza c. 1936

This is Horace Reina's design for a silver tazza. The drawing gives us some sense of the metalworking processes involved in its creation. Consider the central dish, framed by a rope-like edge and ornamented with a heraldic crest. This would have been raised from a flat sheet through hammering, or perhaps formed using a lathe. The stem also features a lathe-turned profile, showcasing the silversmith's skill in shaping the metal. Silver has always been associated with luxury, and here, the meticulous craftsmanship elevates the tazza into a display piece, more than just a functional object. The labor involved, from the initial design to the final polishing, speaks to a culture that valued both artistry and conspicuous consumption. Reina’s design prompts us to think beyond the object's aesthetic qualities. By recognizing the processes and social context embedded in its making, we gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry of craft.