Creamer 1807 - 1810

This creamer, by Garret Forbes, is made from silver, likely sometime in the early 19th century. It's a relatively small object, but its presence speaks volumes. Consider the labor involved in creating this vessel. Silver objects like this were not simply cast; they were raised, shaped, and polished by hand. The silversmith would have used hammers and stakes to gradually coax the metal into its elegant form, and would have employed techniques like soldering to attach the handle and feet. The creamer's function is also revealing. It speaks to a culture of refinement and domestic ritual, where even the serving of cream was an opportunity for display. Silver tableware was a signifier of status, indicating that a household had both the means and the taste to acquire such luxury items. The material itself—precious, durable, and reflective—adds to this impression. So, next time you see a silver object like this, remember that it is more than just a pretty thing. It is also a testament to skill, labor, and the social hierarchies of its time.