Chafing dish c. 1760 - 1765

This elegant chafing dish was crafted by Daniel Henchman, around the mid-18th century. Its circular form, made of gleaming silver and warm wood, immediately strikes us with a sense of refined balance. The bowl’s intricate, symmetrical piercings are echoed by the shell-shaped feet, creating a visually harmonious relationship. Henchman’s design speaks to the semiotic interplay between form and function. The dish’s structure is not merely decorative but serves a practical purpose, allowing for even heat distribution. The wooden handle, in contrast to the cool silver, adds a tactile dimension. Consider how the interplay of light and shadow across the surface animate the piece, highlighting its intricate details. These qualities invite us to reflect on the aesthetic principles that elevate functional objects into works of art. This object exemplifies how design can embody cultural values and social meanings.