Caudle Cup 1707

Curator: The sheen of this object is simply captivating! It has such a wonderful balance of form and surface texture. Editor: We're looking at a caudle cup by Edward Winslow, crafted around 1707. Notice the hammered surface, which speaks to the silversmith's labor and the value placed on handcrafted objects in early America. Curator: Indeed! The way the light plays across the hammered silver creates a dynamic, almost liquid effect. The handles, with their delicate floral flourishes, offer a striking contrast to the cup's robust form. Editor: Caudle, a warm, spiced drink, was associated with hospitality, particularly childbirth. Winslow, a prominent silversmith, crafted this for a specific social context, where consumption and display reinforced status. Curator: I see how the cup’s design and function would reinforce social hierarchies. It serves a practical purpose, yet its refined aesthetics elevate it beyond mere utility. Editor: Exactly. Winslow’s caudle cup transcends mere functionality; it's a testament to the interplay of form, function, and social meaning. Curator: A truly enlightening perspective, especially in considering the cup’s materiality and design. Editor: Yes, it makes one consider labor and the aesthetics of early American silver.