Canister 1665 - 1685

This canister was created by Juergen Richels, a silversmith active in the 17th and 18th centuries. Consider the historical moment in which Richels lived. European maritime powers were expanding their reach across the globe, establishing trade routes that facilitated the movement of goods. But, also, the movement of people, often through violence and enslavement. Silver canisters like this one were made to store precious commodities like tea, coffee, and spices. These goods came to Europe through complex colonial networks. The canister, then, becomes more than just a decorative object; it is a symbol of the interconnected global economy. It is a testament to both the beauty and brutality of global exchange. These objects speak to the complex layers of identity and history. Canisters embody a story of human connection, and exploitation.