Lepel van zilver c. 1766

This spoon was made of silver by Johannes Jorritsma. The spoon’s material, silver, is a precious metal, often associated with wealth and status. Forming the bowl would involve hammering the malleable metal into shape, followed by polishing to achieve its smooth, reflective surface. But the handle is where the real artistry lies. Look closely and you can see it has been cast and chased with intricate details. The silversmith would have used small tools to create texture and bring out the forms. Consider too the value of labor embedded in this object. From mining the silver ore, to refining, to the artistry of shaping this spoon. It gives you an idea of just how much was required to produce this single domestic object. By examining the materials and processes behind this spoon, we gain a new appreciation for the artistry involved, challenging any distinction between functional craft and fine art.