Wine taster 1730 - 1740

This is a silver wine taster made by Pierre Desnos, a Parisian silversmith who died in 1751. These small, shallow cups were used to assess the color and clarity of wine before serving. Engraved with the name T. Gosse, this object offers a glimpse into the rituals of consumption of the French elite, as well as the artistry involved in crafting the tools for such rituals. Wine tasters reflect the significance of wine in French culture, not just as a beverage but as a symbol of status and social connection. The cup’s diminutive size belies its cultural weight. Serving as a personal and portable tool for the discerning drinker, it speaks to the relationship between identity, taste, and social performance. The act of tasting becomes a display, underscoring the intersection of personal choice and cultural expectation.