Hot water jug 1807 - 1808

Paul Storr crafted this silver hot water jug in the late 18th or early 19th century, now held at the Metropolitan Museum. The jug’s structure presents a fascinating interplay of forms. The main body, shaped like a smooth, inverted bell, sits atop an ornate stand, which features a bulbous spirit lamp and decorative lion’s paw feet. The contrast between the jug’s sleek surface and the base’s intricate detailing highlights a tension between utility and ornamentation. A curved wooden handle adds a textural contrast to the otherwise metallic composition. The jug’s design incorporates classical motifs—observe the egg-and-dart patterns around the rim—revealing an interest in Neoclassical aesthetics, a style characterized by a revival of classical art and architecture. Storr's silverwork reflects not just a functional object but also a symbolic one that embodies elegance and status. Its polished surfaces and balanced design serve to enhance its visual appeal.